My team and I make a point of visiting with our emergency responders as often as possible. This week, we spent time at Fire Station 51 at LAX, which provides emergency medical and firefighting services in and around the airport. It was deeply informative to learn more about their specialized operations and all they do to keep the traveling public safe!

Our firefighters and paramedics never hesitate to rush headfirst into dangerous circumstances. This week was no different. On Thursday, nine of LA's bravest were injured in the line of duty in Wilmington when a truck carrying natural gas exploded. Two remain in critical condition, but thankfully are expected to survive. Incidents like this are a painful reminder that our first responders are true heroes that deserve our respect and support.

In The News:
Violent vehicle fire explosion causes severe injuries

Seven injured firefighters are out of the hospital

Across the City, we are struggling to address vacant and derelict properties, which create public safety issues and blight our neighborhoods, reinforcing the need for absentee property owners to be held responsible for ensuring that these buildings don’t become a public nuisance; we experienced these consequences firsthand this week in Del Rey when an abandoned, red-tagged home, where two squatters were illegally residing, erupted in flames, resulting in a fatality. We are grateful to the dozens of LA and Culver City firefighters involved in this incident, and we commend their bravery.

Although the investigation remains underway, my office has already ensured all of the properties have been cleared and secured, and we successfully towed 4 vehicles including 2 RVs to complete efforts to secure this neighborhood. Any incidents of trespassing or squatting should be reported immediately to LAPD.

In The News:

Deadly house fire investigation in Del Rey

Did you know that Presidents' Day has been a federal holiday since 1879? Originally intended to celebrate George Washington's birthday, over the years it has been expanded to include the birthdays of Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln, but is often celebrated to honor all those who have served as President. Have a great holiday weekend, CD11. Our offices will reopen on Tuesday.