Los Angeles, November 19, 2025
Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Jaime Moore has harshly criticized media coverage that he claims tarnishes the department’s response to the Palisades fire. His comments come amid an ongoing investigation into the handling of both the Lachman and Palisades fires, which have raised public concern and scrutiny of the department’s preparedness. The Palisades fire has become one of the most devastating wildfires in Los Angeles history, leading to significant changes in leadership within the department as efforts to rebuild trust continue.
Los Angeles Fire Chief Criticizes Media Coverage of Palisades Fire Response
Los Angeles, CA — On November 18, 2025, Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Chief Jaime Moore publicly criticized media reports that he believes unfairly “smear” the department’s response to the Palisades fire. His comments mark a significant shift from his previous statements regarding the incident.
Chief Moore’s Response to Media Reports
Chief Moore’s remarks were in response to a report alleging that a battalion chief ordered firefighters to leave the burn area of the Lachman fire on January 1, 2025, despite concerns about smoldering terrain. Moore questioned the authenticity of these reports, stating he had yet to see the text messages cited. He emphasized the department’s commitment to extinguishing fires and expressed frustration over the negative portrayal of firefighters’ actions.
Investigation into the Lachman Fire Handling
In response to the controversy, Chief Moore announced plans to review the LAFD’s handling of the Lachman fire. While he did not specify who would conduct the investigation, Moore acknowledged the need to learn from the incident to improve future responses. This review aims to address concerns about the department’s decision-making process during the early stages of the Palisades fire.
Background on the Palisades Fire
The Palisades fire, which began on January 7, 2025, became one of the most destructive wildfires in Los Angeles history, resulting in at least 12 fatalities and the destruction of thousands of homes. The fire’s rapid spread and intensity overwhelmed firefighting resources, leading to widespread criticism of the department’s preparedness and response strategies.
Leadership Changes in the LAFD
In the aftermath of the Palisades fire, Mayor Karen Bass dismissed then-Fire Chief Kristin Crowley on February 21, 2025, citing inadequate preparation and refusal to conduct an after-action report. Ronnie Villanueva, a 41-year veteran of the department, was appointed as interim chief during the search for a permanent replacement. Chief Moore’s appointment on November 17, 2025, marked a new chapter for the department as it seeks to rebuild trust and enhance its wildfire response capabilities.
Ongoing Challenges and Public Perception
The LAFD continues to face challenges in addressing public concerns about its handling of the Palisades fire. Efforts to improve communication, resource allocation, and strategic planning are ongoing. The department remains committed to learning from past incidents to better protect the community in future emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What did Chief Jaime Moore criticize in the media reports?
Chief Moore criticized media reports that he believes unfairly “smear” the LAFD’s response to the Palisades fire, particularly allegations about the handling of the Lachman fire.
What is the Lachman fire, and how is it related to the Palisades fire?
The Lachman fire was a smaller fire that occurred on January 1, 2025. Concerns about its handling, including orders to leave smoldering areas, are believed to have contributed to the later Palisades fire.
Who is currently leading the LAFD?
Chief Jaime Moore is the current head of the LAFD, having been appointed on November 17, 2025, following the dismissal of former Chief Kristin Crowley.
What actions are being taken to address the department’s response to the Palisades fire?
The LAFD is conducting a review of its response to the Lachman fire to identify areas for improvement and prevent future incidents.
How did the Palisades fire impact Los Angeles?
The Palisades fire resulted in at least 12 fatalities and destroyed thousands of homes, making it one of the most destructive wildfires in the city’s history.
Key Features of the Palisades Fire Response
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident | Palisades fire began on January 7, 2025, becoming one of the most destructive wildfires in Los Angeles history. |
| Leadership Change | Mayor Karen Bass dismissed Fire Chief Kristin Crowley on February 21, 2025, citing inadequate preparation and refusal to conduct an after-action report. |
| Current Leadership | Chief Jaime Moore appointed on November 17, 2025, to lead the LAFD and address public concerns. |
| Investigation | Review of the Lachman fire handling initiated to identify areas for improvement in future responses. |
| Impact | At least 12 fatalities and thousands of homes destroyed, highlighting the need for enhanced wildfire response strategies. |
Now Happening on X
- @MayorOfLA (November 14, 2025, 2:19 AM): The National Weather Service forecasts a large storm with moderate to heavy rain from November 13 through 16 across the L.A. region, peaking Friday evening; the City has issued an Evacuation Warning for burn scar areas. View on X
- @CCWNNews (November 15, 2025, 1:00 PM): Storm update warns of a Flood Watch and Evacuation Warnings in effect as the L.A. storm strengthens, with risks of dangerous road conditions, power outages, and debris flow in burn scars. View on X
- @SMMirror (November 15, 2025, 1:00 PM): Authorities in L.A. are warning of heavy rain leading to flooding risks and potential mudslides in burn areas, urging residents to prepare for power outages and hazardous conditions. View on X
- @LAFDtalk (November 15, 2025, 2:53 AM): Rain is moving through Los Angeles with intensifying conditions expected over the weekend; LAFD shares coverage, press updates, and weather predictions to keep residents informed and safe. View on X
- @MayorOfLA (November 13, 2025, 4:24 AM): A moderate storm with showers is forecast from November 13 through 16, with peak rainfall Friday evening; an Evacuation Warning is issued for recent burn scar areas effective Thursday evening. View on X
- @BrentwoodNewsLA (November 15, 2025, 1:00 PM): L.A. officials issue storm update highlighting Flood Watch, Evacuation Warnings, dangerous roads, power outages, and debris flows in burn scars as the weather system strengthens. View on X
- @citystuff_la (November 15, 2025, 4:32 PM): Torrential rain is arriving in Southern California, bringing widespread flooding and likely mudslides as the storm impacts the region. View on X
- @lalovestrump (November 15, 2025, 7:10 AM): LA City Alert updates on the storm, expecting heavy rain, debris flows, and flooding; residents are advised to stay informed. View on X
- @ABC7 (November 13, 2025, 12:47 AM): SoCal storm update for November 12 notes Evacuation Warnings issued for several burn scar areas in Los Angeles County due to heavy rain and possible mudslides, effective from Thursday evening through Sunday morning. View on X
- @Shadowbat (November 13, 2025, 9:46 PM): Evacuation Warnings are in place as an atmospheric river threatens to drench burn-scarred areas of Los Angeles, raising concerns for mudslides. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Los Angeles Police Shoot Armed Suspect in South LA
Los Angeles Tunnel Collapse: 31 Workers Rescued Uninjured
Tragic Fire Claims Life at Downtown High-Rise Complex
Police Arrest Two Men After Gunfire in Downtown Los Angeles
Long Beach Traffic Collision Claims Driver’s Life
Santa Monica City Council Implements Transparency Measures
Bus Overturns on Mountain Road in Santa Ana, 20 Hospitalized
Authorities Pursue Stolen Minivan Across Southern California
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Drive for Excellence Fuels Thunder’s Future
Santa Barbara County Investigates Disappearance of Melodee Buzzard
Author: STAFF HERE LOS ANGELES WRITER
The LOS ANGELES STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELosAngeles.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Los Angeles, Los Angeles County, and beyond, specializing in "news you can use" with coverage of product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates, while delivering top reporting on high-value events like the Academy Awards, LA Auto Show, and Los Angeles Marathon, extending coverage to key organizations such as the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board, plus leading businesses in entertainment and technology like Warner Bros. and SpaceX, and as part of the broader HERE network including HEREAnaheim.com , HERECostaMesa.com , HEREHuntingtonBeach.com , and HERESantaAna.com , providing comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape. HERE Anaheim HERE Beverly Hills HERE Coronado HERE Costa Mesa HERE Hollywood HERE Huntington Beach HERE Long Beach HERE Los Angeles HERE Mission Viejo HERE San Diego HERE Santa Ana
