Los Angeles Mayor Fires Fire Chief Amid Wildfire Management Controversy
Mayor Karen Bass has dismissed Fire Chief Kristin Crowley, citing her handling of recent wildfires that devastated the city, leading to multiple fatalities and extensive damage.
Karen Bass Boots LA Fire Chief After Blaming Her for Ghana Trip
Washington Free Beacon
Overview
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has removed Fire Chief Kristin Crowley following severe wildfires that killed 29 and destroyed thousands of homes. Crowley was blamed for sending firefighters home before the fires and refusing to prepare an investigation report. Bass faced backlash for being in Ghana during the fires, raising questions about city leadership and emergency preparedness. Crowley, the first female fire chief, will remain with the department at a lower rank. Ronnie Villanueva has been appointed as interim chief as the city assesses its firefighting strategies.
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Associated Press·4M·FAQ
Mayor Bass removed Chief Crowley due to concerns over the handling of recent wildfires, specifically the decision to send 1,000 firefighters home before the fires and Crowley's refusal to prepare an after-action report on the fires.
Mayor Bass's absence in Ghana during the wildfires raised questions about her leadership and preparedness. She acknowledged her trip was a mistake, given the anticipated windstorm and fire risks.
Kristin Crowley has exercised her Civil Service rights to remain with the Los Angeles Fire Department but at a lower rank. Her duties will be assigned by the interim chief, Ronnie Villanueva.
Former Chief Deputy Ronnie Villanueva, a 41-year LAFD veteran, has been appointed as the interim fire chief.
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