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High-Speed Police Chase Ends in Violent Long Beach Crash
Long Beach Sues California Over Controversial Sales Tax Hike
Firefighters Quickly Contain House Fire in North Long Beach
Experience the 50th Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach: April 11-13, 2025
Two Killed in Long Beach Motorcycle Collision

LBLN Weekly News Update 3.4.20

March 4, 2020March 9, 2020 LBLN

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A high-speed police chase involving a stolen work

A high-speed police chase involving a stolen work truck in Los Angeles ended in a major crash in Long Beach. The pursuit went through multiple cities, including Whittier, Downey, Norwalk, and Lakewood, before the suspect crashed at high speeds at the intersection of 7th Street and Termino Avenue in Long Beach.

LAPD took the suspect into custody after the crash, and an investigation is ongoing.

Video by KTLA Sky 5

Long Beach Sues California Over Disputed Sales Tax

Long Beach Sues California Over Disputed Sales Tax Hike

The City of Long Beach is suing the State of California over a controversial sales tax increase while also defending itself from a lawsuit by the Long Beach Reform Coalition (LBRC), which argues the tax hike is illegal.
• The City Council approved a quarter-cent tax increase, raising the sales tax to 10.75 percent, without voter approval.
• The California Department of Tax & Fee Administration (CDTFA) rejected the increase, stating it violates state law.
• Long Beach is now suing the CDTFA to enforce the tax, while LBRC continues its legal fight against the city.

“The City of Long Beach is battling both its residents and the state to push an illegal tax,” said Ian Patton, LBRC Executive Director.

Retailers and residents are caught in the confusion, unsure what tax rate to charge as the April 1 deadline approaches. If the city wins, Long Beach will have one of the highest sales tax rates in California. If it loses, officials may have to rethink their approach to raising revenue.

Should the city be able to increase taxes without voter approval? Share your thoughts in the comments.

More information on our website link in bio

#LongBeach #TaxHike #LBRC #California #SalesTax #LocalNews

Firefighters Quickly Contain House Fire in North L

Firefighters Quickly Contain House Fire in North Long Beach

A house fire in North Long Beach was swiftly brought under control Wednesday morning, thanks to a rapid response from the Long Beach Fire Department.

Crews were dispatched to the fully involved fire at 56th Street and Rose Avenue at 9:59 a.m. Firefighters worked quickly and successfully extinguished the flames within 20 minutes. No injuries were reported.

Assigned fire units included AC1, BC1, DC1, E7, E9, E12, E13, E19, R9, R11, and T7. The cause of the fire is under investigation. @longbeachfire @longbeachfirefighters

Experience the 50th Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach

Experience the 50th Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach: April 11-13, 2025

The Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach is set to celebrate its 50th edition from April 11-13, 2025, promising an action-packed weekend of motorsports, entertainment, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re a die-hard racing enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this year’s event will be a must-attend event.

What to Expect

As the third round of the 2025 NTT INDYCAR SERIES, the Grand Prix will feature top drivers battling on the iconic 1.97-mile street circuit in downtown Long Beach. The weekend also includes:
• IMSA SportsCar Grand Prix – High-performance endurance racing
• Stadium Super Trucks – Gravity-defying jumps and thrilling competition
• Historic Formula Cars & GT America – Classic race cars from past and present
• Super Drift Challenge – Late-night drifting under the lights

Beyond the Track

The Grand Prix isn’t just about racing! Attendees can enjoy:
• Concerts: Friday features DVBBS, while Saturday’s headline act is Foreigner
• Driver Autograph Sessions: Meet your favorite INDYCAR stars
• Lifestyle Expo: A showcase of automotive and tech exhibits
• Exotic Car Parade: A must-see showcase of luxury supercars

How to Get Tickets – Even for Free!

Tickets are available online, but you can sometimes find free Friday general admission tickets through promotions. Look for special offers online or check local Press-Telegram newspapers, which occasionally include free Friday tickets as part of a special giveaway.

Formula Drift & Super Drift Challenge

Before the Grand Prix weekend, the streets of Long Beach will transform into a drifting battleground with Formula Drift Round 1: Streets of Long Beach on April 4-5, 2025. This high-adrenaline event features top professional drift drivers showcasing precision car control as they slide around tight corners at high speeds. Tickets and more information can be found on the official Formula Drift website

@gplongbeach @formulad

Cal Worthington & Worthington Ford 1985 If you we

Cal Worthington & Worthington Ford 1985

If you were anywhere near Long Beach in the 1980s, you couldn’t turn on a TV or radio without hearing “Go See Cal! Go See Cal! Go See Cal!”

Cal Worthington wasn’t just a car dealer—he was a legend. His over-the-top commercials featuring his “dog” Spot (which was never actually a dog but anything from an elephant to a tiger) made him a household name. Whether you needed a new Ford or a used car, Worthington Ford was the place to go.

In 1985, Worthington Ford was one of the biggest dealerships in Southern California, and Cal’s wild antics kept customers rolling in. His catchy jingle and unforgettable ads made buying a car an experience, not just a transaction.

Who remembers watching those commercials? Share your favorite Cal Worthington memories below!

#GoSeeCal #WorthingtonFord #80sNostalgia #LongBeach

Two Killed in Long Beach Motorcycle Collision Lon

Two Killed in Long Beach Motorcycle Collision

Long Beach, CA – Collision Investigation detectives are investigating a fatal traffic collision that occurred on the evening of March 23, 2025, at the intersection of Wardlow Road and Woodruff Avenue.

At approximately 7:35 p.m., officers responded to reports of an injury traffic collision involving a motorcycle and a passenger vehicle. Upon arrival, Long Beach Fire Department personnel were already on the scene, providing medical aid. The driver of the passenger vehicle was transported to a local hospital, while the motorcyclist and a passenger in the vehicle succumbed to their injuries at the scene.

According to the preliminary investigation, a 2025 Yamaha YZF-R1 motorcycle was traveling northbound on Woodruff Avenue when it collided with a 2006 Toyota Highlander. The Toyota Highlander was making a left turn from southbound Woodruff Avenue onto eastbound Wardlow Road at the time of the crash.

The motorcyclist has been identified as 28-year-old Austin Patrick Fett, a resident of Lakewood. The identity of the Toyota Highlander’s passenger is being withheld pending notification of next of kin by the Los Angeles County Office of the Medical Examiner.

Police say impaired driving is not being investigated as a factor in the crash.

“At this time, other contributing factors are under investigation,” police said.

The Long Beach Police Department asks witnesses or anyone with more information to contact detectives at 562-570-7355.

Correction 3/24/2025 at 4:00 p.m.: Impaired driving is not being investigated as a possible factor in the collision.

MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center – A Leade

MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center – A Leader in Joint Replacement and Revision Surgery

Long Beach, CA – MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center stands out as a leading destination for patients seeking total joint replacement and revision surgeries. Under the leadership of Dr. Andrew Wassef, Medical Director of the MemorialCare Joint Replacement Center, the facility provides expert care for individuals suffering from severe arthritis and joint complications.

The center specializes in total hip, total knee, and total shoulder replacements, offering state-of-the-art treatment to restore mobility and improve patients’ quality of life. For those who have previously undergone joint replacement but are now experiencing complications—whether due to wear and tear, mechanical issues, or infections—revision surgery is an essential option.

“Some patients had their hip replacements 25 years ago and simply need new parts,” explains Dr. Wassef. “Revision surgery involves redoing a prior joint replacement to address mechanical issues, pain, or other complications interfering with normal activities.”

MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center has been nationally recognized as a top orthopedic program, thanks to its dedicated team of surgeons, nurses, physical therapists, and operating room technicians. Their collaborative efforts ensure excellent patient outcomes and make the center a trusted choice for complex procedures.

Beyond surgery, the hospital offers comprehensive post-operative care, including acute rehabilitation and intensive care, ensuring that patients recover in a well-supported environment. “It’s amazing how much our team cares,” Dr. Wassef adds. “They put their blood, sweat, and tears into making this an outstanding program.”

For patients considering joint replacement or revision surgery, MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center provides expert evaluations and consultations. Those interested can reach out at (562) 933-4004 or visit memorialcare.org/LBjointreplacement for more information.

With cutting-edge care and a compassionate team, MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center remains a top choice for orthopedic surgery in Southern California.

@big_bad_wolf1983 The Vigilante Exposing Child Pre

@big_bad_wolf1983 The Vigilante Exposing Child Predators in Long Beach with 100+ Convictions

Big Bad Wolf, also known as Black Biden, is a vigilante in Long Beach dedicated to exposing and bringing child predators to justice. Through online investigations and in-person confrontations, he has pursued 289 cases, leading to over 100 convictions. He shares his arrests on his platform, where he also hosts live chat sessions discussing updates, trending news, and open conversations with supporters and critics alike. His fearless approach has made a significant impact in the fight against child exploitation.

Homicide Detectives Investigate Fatal Shooting in

Homicide Detectives Investigate Fatal Shooting in Long Beach

Homicide detectives are investigating the fatal shooting of a man in Long Beach early Monday morning.

According to authorities, officers responded to reports of an assault with a deadly weapon at approximately 3:49 a.m. in the 5400 block of Atlantic Avenue. Upon arrival, they found a male adult victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body.

Officers provided medical aid until Long Beach Fire Department personnel arrived and transported the victim to a local hospital. Despite efforts to save him, he later succumbed to his injuries.

Homicide detectives have taken over the investigation and are working to determine the motive and circumstances surrounding the shooting. No suspect information has been released at this time.

The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of the next of kin, as confirmed by the Los Angeles County Department of the Medical Examiner.

Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to come forward as the investigation continues.

Long Beach’s First Beachfront Skating Rink Is No

Long Beach’s First Beachfront Skating Rink Is Now Open

After months of delays, the Junipero Beach Sports Court is officially open at 2630 E. Ocean Blvd. This new $1 million outdoor recreation facility features a roller skating area, full basketball court with seating, and a shaded structure the first of its kind on Long Beach’s coastline. Originally set to open in May 2024, the project faced construction setbacks, but city officials say the result was worth the wait. Long Beach’s vibrant skating community now has a dedicated beachfront space to enjoy. Stop by and check out this exciting new addition to the city’s outdoor scene.

Pop-Up Arcade Brings Nostalgia and Fun to Long Bea

Pop-Up Arcade Brings Nostalgia and Fun to Long Beach

Long Beach is experiencing a wave of gaming nostalgia with the Mimz Arcade Experience, a pop-up arcade event bringing together retro classics and modern favorites. Hosted by a passionate local resident, the arcade offers an interactive escape for gamers of all ages.

Long Beach Local News hit an exclusive interview with Mima Lopez of Long Beach who created Mimz Arcade Experience.

What inspired you to host a pop-up arcade event?

“I wanted to bring a nostalgic, interactive experience to the community that combined arcade classics with modern gaming,” the host shared. “There’s something special about the energy of an arcade — the lights, the sounds, the friendly competition. My goal was to bring an unforgettable experience to Wrigley and Long Beach, offering people of all ages a chance to break away from their daily routines, share joyful moments, and immerse themselves in the Mimz Arcade Experience.”

What types of arcade games are available, and are they free to play?

The event features a diverse selection of games, from modern hits like Super Smash Bros., Call of Duty, Mario Kart 8, and Rocket League to fighting classics such as Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, and Tekken. Retro favorites like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Galaga, and Tetris are also crowd-pleasers. Best of all, the arcade is free to attend, with affordable options for private and corporate events.

How long will the pop-up arcade be open, and are there any special events or promotions?

In 2024, the Mimz Arcade Experience made four appearances, typically on a quarterly basis. Hosted at Wrigley Coffee, the event transforms the cozy coffee shop into a buzzing arcade. As its popularity grows, organizers hope to expand to more venues in Long Beach. Fans can stay updated on future events and promotions by following @mimztechgroup on social media.

Read the full article on our website link in bio #longbeach

Police Investigate Threatening Video at Lindbergh

Police Investigate Threatening Video at Lindbergh Middle School

Long Beach Police are investigating a report of a student at Lindbergh Middle School who made a video threatening to kill another student. Authorities received the report around 9:45 a.m. on Friday.

The incident took place at the North Long Beach school and is currently under investigation. Officials have not released further details about the individuals involved or any potential disciplinary actions.

LBPD is working with school officials to assess the situation and ensure student safety. Parents and community members are urged to remain vigilant as the investigation continues.

More updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

Long Beach Temporarily Closes Coastal Swimming Are

Long Beach Temporarily Closes Coastal Swimming Areas Due to Sewage Spill

Long Beach, CA – Long Beach health officials have temporarily closed all open coastal swimming areas due to a sewage spill that originated in Rowland Heights, more than 30 miles away. The spill, caused by a grease blockage in a main sewer line, resulted in the overflow of 10,500 gallons of sewage, which is expected to reach Long Beach waters via the San Gabriel River.

Long Beach City Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis issued the closure order in accordance with state law, which requires temporary beach closures in such cases to protect public health. The affected areas will remain off-limits for water contact until water quality testing confirms that conditions meet state safety standards.

In addition to the closure, a rain advisory is currently in effect, recommending that residents and visitors avoid ocean water contact for 72 hours following significant rainfall. Unlike the rain advisory, which is a precautionary measure, the sewage spill has caused a mandatory closure.

City workers are posting signs along the waterfront to inform the public of the closure. Residents and visitors can check the latest updates on water conditions by calling the city’s water hotline at 562.570.4199 or visiting longbeach.gov/beachwaterquality.

The Long Beach Health Department’s Recreational Water Quality team is closely monitoring bacterial levels along the coast. Routine water testing will continue until results confirm that it is safe to reopen the beaches for swimming. In the meantime, officials urge the community to avoid water contact to prevent potential health risks.

Million Dollar Beach Skating Rink Opens in Long Be

Two Teenage Girls Injured in Long Beach Parking Lo

Two Teenage Girls Injured in Long Beach Parking Lot Shooting

Two teenage girls were wounded in a shooting at a parking lot near a Long Beach strip mall, authorities reported Monday.

According to the Long Beach Police Department, the incident took place around 9:17 p.m. Sunday near Anaheim Street and Elm Avenue. Preliminary findings suggest that one or more suspects fired into a group of people, striking the two girls.

Their injuries were not considered life-threatening, and they transported themselves to a hospital for treatment, police said.

The shooting comes with a rise in crime across Long Beach, with residents expressing growing concerns over increased crime in the area. Police have not released information on a possible motive or suspects as the investigation continues.

Long Beach Fire Department Faces Shortage of Rescu

Long Beach Fire Department Faces Shortage of Rescue Units Amid Rising 911 Calls @longbeachfirefighters @longbeachfire

At a recent Long Beach City Council meeting, firefighters spoke out about past budget cuts that reduced rescue units, urging leaders to prioritize emergency services. City officials acknowledge the crisis but cite budget shortfalls as a challenge.

The Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD) is facing a critical shortage of emergency rescue units as 911 calls surge, leading to delayed response times and strained resources.

Firefighter Philip Hamlin shared a tragic account of a woman who suffered cardiac arrest while waiting for an available rescue unit. “Long Beach was out of rescues. We waited while her family pleaded with us to do something. She didn’t survive.”

Paramedics report running nonstop calls, often without breaks. “We don’t have enough ambulances to meet demand,” said one veteran paramedic.

Mayor Rex Richardson highlighted past budget decisions that have impacted emergency response times. “Our system is the sum of its parts. I recall in 2010, during Steve Neal’s second council meeting, the budget proposed cutting Paramedic Rescue 12. The chambers were packed—but with people holding signs to save the Municipal Band, not Rescue 12. The band kept playing, but the rescue was cut, leading to three-minute slower response times in North Long Beach and a minute citywide.”

With ambulance shortages leading to longer wait times for life-threatening emergencies, firefighters and residents are demanding immediate action.

Read more about this on our website link in bio

Police Respond to Vehicle Collision Involving Two

Police Respond to Vehicle Collision Involving Two Children in Overturned Car

Police are currently on the scene of a vehicle collision involving two young children in an overturned car at Wardlow and Lakewood just before 8AM. LBFD is evaluating the children and the driver.

Details about the cause of the crash and the condition of those involved have not yet been released. Motorists are advised to avoid the area.

Long Beach will receive $11 million from Californi

Long Beach will receive $11 million from California’s Encampment Resolution Funding (ERF) program to address homelessness along a 9.5-mile stretch of the Los Angeles Riverbed, the city’s largest and longest-standing encampment. City officials say the funding will help connect unhoused individuals to shelter and permanent housing, but concerns remain about whether it will lead to lasting change, especially given Long Beach’s ongoing shelter bed shortage and housing project delays.

The city has had some success with previous ERF initiatives, with 49% of participants in one program securing permanent housing. Currently, 64 people are in shelters and 10 have been housed through an ongoing effort. However, homelessness remains a significant issue, with over a thousand people unsheltered and 92% of those in the riverbed experiencing homelessness for a year or more. The encampment’s location poses health and safety risks, given its proximity to freeways and limited emergency response access.

Mayor Rex Richardson called the funding a step toward restoring the riverbed as a “cleaner, safer, and more accessible space.” The city plans to use the funds to transition individuals into non-congregate shelters and, ultimately, permanent housing. However, Long Beach currently has only around 530 shelter beds—far fewer than needed. Additionally, a planned shelter at a renovated North Long Beach motel has been delayed due to construction setbacks, further limiting options.

Critics argue that clearing encampments without enough shelter capacity leads to displacement rather than real solutions. Concerns have also grown over the city’s ability to manage homelessness funds effectively. Long Beach recently had to return $5.6 million in state grants after failing to find a suitable location for a tiny home village, citing concerns about noise and air pollution. With shelter shortages and lost funding, the key question remains: Will this $11 million investment create real change, or is it another temporary fix for a long-term crisis?

Read more on our website link in bio

Long Beach Police Seize Guns, Ammo, and Drugs in H

Long Beach Police Seize Guns, Ammo, and Drugs in High Crime Focus Team Bust

LONG BEACH, CA — A late-night police operation by the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) led to the seizure of firearms, ammunition, and drugs, culminating in the arrest of a prohibited possessor.

On Saturday night, officers from the LBPD High Crime Focus Team executed a search warrant in the 1400 block of San Francisco Avenue. During the operation, authorities recovered four firearms, a cache of ammunition, and methamphetamine. The male suspect, whose identity has not yet been released, was taken into custody and determined to be a prohibited possessor, meaning he was legally barred from owning firearms.

The High Crime Focus Team, established in May 2024, has been instrumental in proactive crime-fighting efforts across the city. The unit focuses on removing illegal guns from the streets, making arrests, and engaging with residents and businesses to enhance public safety.

No further details about the suspect or potential charges have been released at this time.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Three car collision on Cherry just south of Carson

Three car collision on Cherry just south of Carson. No serious injuries reported. The collision occurred just after 11 AM today northbound Cherry closed, heavy traffic in the area. LBPD and LBFD are on scene investigating.

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