Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass dismissed Fire Chief Kristin Crowley after a catastrophic wildfire caused significant destruction and loss of life. The city's leadership faced backlash over alleged unpreparedness, with Bass blaming Crowley for sending home firefighters prior to the fires and not producing an essential after-action report. The wildfire, which began on January 7, led to nearly 8,000 buildings being damaged and over 29 fatalities in total. Amid growing criticism of her actions during the crisis, Bass acknowledged her error in being away during the disaster, while Crowley pointed to budget cuts affecting firefighter capabilities.
The Palisades fire began during heavy winds on 7 January, destroying or damaging nearly 8,000 homes, businesses and other structures and killing at least 12 people.
Bass said in a statement that she was removing Chief Kristin Crowley immediately, stating that bringing new leadership to the fire department is what our city needs.
Criticism has mounted against Bass for being in Africa during the fires, as weather reports had warned of dangerous conditions shortly before her departure.
Crowley publicly criticized the city for budget cuts that made it harder for firefighters to do their jobs, indicating systemic issues within the fire department.
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