Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced on Friday that she has removed Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Chief Kristin Crowley “effective immediately.” The decision comes as tensions rise following recent wildfires that impacted the region.
In a statement released to the media, Mayor Bass emphasized that her decision was made “in the best interests of Los Angeles’ public safety” and the operations of the LAFD. She focused on concerns regarding staffing during critical incidents, stating:
We know that 1,000 firefighters that could have been on duty on the morning the fires broke out were instead sent home on Chief Crowley’s watch.
Bass also referenced Crowley’s refusal to complete an after-action report following the fires, a request made by the President of the Fire Commission, calling this a necessary step for an investigation that contributed to her removal. “The heroism of our firefighters…is without question,” she added, advocating for new leadership within the department.
Bass appointed Ronnie Villanueva, a 41-year LAFD veteran and former Chief Deputy, as interim fire chief. She stated her administration will conduct a national search for Crowley’s permanent replacement while engaging with firefighters and residents about their expectations for the new chief.
The announcement has drawn immediate criticism from Bass’s political rival, billionaire Rick Caruso, who called the decision “disappointing.” Caruso, who was vocal during the previous mayoral race, praised Crowley’s service and labeled her honesty about budget cuts as “brave.” He argued that Bass should take responsibility for the decisions made during her administration rather than laying on other government figures.
The LAFD acknowledged the Mayor’s announcement but declined to comment further on the situation.
With the city still reeling from the impact of recent wildfires, Mayor Bass is expected to address the media further in a press conference scheduled to follow the sudden announcement ousting former Fire Chief Crowley.
