LA Firefighter Testifies on Protocol
An LAFD firefighter testified that he warned superiors the Lachman fire was not fully extinguished before crews were dismissed. The testimony is part of an ongoing investigation into the fire and the department's procedures for managing potential reignitions.
The sworn testimony comes from Scott Pike, a 23-year LAFD veteran, who was on scene for the initial Lachman fire on January 2, 2025. Pike stated he identified at least five distinct areas that were still smoking and discovered red-hot, crackling coals beneath an ash pit. Pike testified that he warned a captain and other firefighters on the scene that hot spots remained, suggesting a change in tactics was needed. He stated his concerns were dismissed, and he was told to continue packing up hoses as the crew prepared to leave the area. The initial Lachman fire, which broke out on New Year's Day 2025, was contained to eight acres. However, days later on January 7, strong Santa Ana winds are believed to have reignited the smoldering embers, leading to the devastating Palisades Fire. The resulting Palisades Fire killed 12 people, destroyed over 6,800 structures, and burned more than 23,000 acres in Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and the Santa Monica mountains. This made it one of the most destructive fires in the history of Los Angeles. Top LAFD commanders, including the fire chief at the time, Kristin Crowley, had previously insisted the Lachman fire was "dead out." Pike's testimony contradicts the department's 70-page after-action report, for which he says he was never interviewed. Pike's deposition is part of a lawsuit filed by thousands of victims of the Palisades Fire against the City of Los Angeles and the State of California. In response to the testimony, Mayor Karen Bass called the statements "tremendously alarming" and confirmed an independent investigation is underway. The city has since announced a new "extinguishing protocol" that addresses some of the issues raised around the Lachman Fire. The independent investigation, ordered by the City Council, is being conducted by Critical Preparedness Response Solutions.
