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Long Beach Fire Department Faces Shortage of Rescue Units Amid Rising 911 Calls
Long Beach Receives $11 Million to Address Homelessness Along L.A. River, But Will It Be Enough?
Long Beach Police Seize Guns, Ammo, and Drugs in High Crime Focus Team Bust
Long Beach Police Department to Conduct DUI/Driver License Checkpoint Friday
Authorities Search for Inmate Who Escaped Long Beach Reentry Facility

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April 2, 2021April 2, 2021 LBLN

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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.

Long Beach Police Department to Conduct DUI/Driver

Long Beach Police Department to Conduct DUI/Driver License Checkpoint Friday

Long Beach, CA – On Friday, February 28, 2025, the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) will conduct a DUI/Driver License checkpoint from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. in the North Division area.

Checkpoint locations are chosen based on data indicating high rates of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary goal of these checkpoints is to enhance public safety by identifying and removing impaired drivers from the road.

“Impaired drivers pose a serious threat to everyone’s safety,” said Commander Jeremy Boshnack. “By taking proactive measures to prevent impaired driving, we can make a significant impact on reducing traffic-related injuries and fatalities.”

LBPD reminds the public that impairment isn’t limited to alcohol. Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications can also affect a person’s ability to drive safely. Additionally, while both medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal in California, driving under the influence of marijuana remains illegal.

A first-time DUI conviction can result in an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, along with a suspended driver’s license.

This checkpoint is funded through a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, in partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Authorities Search for Inmate Who Escaped Long Bea

Authorities Search for Inmate Who Escaped Long Beach Reentry Facility

LONG BEACH, Calif. — Authorities are searching for a 23-year-old inmate who escaped from a Long Beach reentry facility Tuesday night, according to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR).

The inmate, identified as Evans L. Eithan, fled the Male Community Reentry Program facility around 7:20 p.m. after getting into the passenger seat of a gray Jeep four-door pickup truck. Despite an immediate search of the buildings and surrounding area, officials were unable to locate him.

Eithan is described as 6 feet 1 inch tall, weighing 185 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. He was last seen wearing a black sweatshirt and gray shorts.

Eithan had been serving a three-year, four-month sentence for first-degree burglary, evading arrest while driving recklessly, and resisting a peace officer. He was admitted to the reentry center on June 12, 2024.

The CDCR’s Office of Correctional Safety, along with local law enforcement agencies, is actively searching for Eithan. Authorities have not determined where he may be headed.

The Male Community Reentry Program is designed to help eligible state prison inmates transition back into society by allowing them to serve the final portion of their sentences in a supervised environment. Participation in the program is voluntary and limited to offenders with two years or less remaining on their sentences.

Officials urge anyone with information about Eithan’s whereabouts to contact Special Agent Abraham Villasenor at 760-936-1851, their local law enforcement agency, or dial 911.

Long Beach Ends 26-Year Partnership with spcaLA, A

Long Beach Ends 26-Year Partnership with spcaLA, Aiming for Improved Animal Care Services

The City of Long Beach has officially ended its 26-year partnership with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA), citing non-compliance with the lease agreement and ongoing operational concerns. The termination requires spcaLA to vacate the Long Beach Animal Care Services (LBACS) campus within 30 days, marking a significant shift in the city’s approach to animal care.

For decades, spcaLA has operated on city-owned land adjacent to the LBACS facility, paying just $120 per year for the lease. Additionally, the city has covered 50% of the operating costs for the entire campus, despite concerns that spcaLA has not been fulfilling its obligations under the agreement. The city’s decision to terminate the partnership stems from long-standing issues, including space limitations, failure to comply with municipal reporting laws, and a drastic reduction in the number of adoptions facilitated by spcaLA.

Local animal activists have had a long love-hate relationship with spcaLA at the Long Beach facility. Many activists viewed the organization as one that emphasized money over adoption, often prioritizing financial interests over the well-being of the animals in its care. Over the years, these concerns have fueled frustration among rescue groups and volunteers who have criticized spcaLA’s lack of transparency and reluctance to take in more adoptable animals from LBACS.

Long Beach officials are prepared to take legal action if spcaLA does not vacate the premises within the given 30-day timeframe. In the meantime, LBACS is working with partner rescue organizations to ensure a smooth transition and will provide updates on expanded adoption programs and services in the coming weeks. The city encourages residents to visit longbeach.gov/acs for updates on adoption events and shelter initiatives.

Long Beach Local News reached out to spcaLA and we are waiting to hear back with a statement.

Read more about this on our website

Man Shot and Wounded at Long Beach CVS Long Beac

Man Shot and Wounded at Long Beach CVS

Long Beach, CA – A shooting occurred on Saturday at approximately 2:55 AM in front of a CVS located at 4400 Los Coyotes Diagonal. The Long Beach Police and Long Beach Fire responded to the scene after reports of gunfire.

Authorities found a male victim with a gunshot wound to the lower body. The victim, who remains conscious and breathing, was attended to by emergency personnel. Preliminary witness accounts suggest the man may be a CVS employee who attempted to intervene in a shoplifting incident moments before the shooting.

According to witnesses, three female suspects fled the scene in a white Mercedes-Benz sedan shortly after the incident. Details about the suspects and the vehicle remain limited as the investigation unfolds.
LBPD officers are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and no arrests have been reported at this time.

This is a developing story, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.

*LBUSD asked us to replace the photo with a more f

*LBUSD asked us to replace the photo with a more fitting image*

LBUSD Expands Access to Menstrual Products Under California’s Menstrual Equity for All Act

Long Beach Unified Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusivity and Equity Amid Mixed Reactions

February 19, 2025 – Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting all students, staff, and families—especially those in the LGBTQ+ community—amid societal and political challenges that seek to divide rather than unite.

The district emphasized that its dedication to Excellence and Equity drives every decision, ensuring that every student, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, background, race, faith, disability, or immigration status, feels seen, safe, and supported. LBUSD stated that it rejects any attempt to undermine dignity or deny access to inclusive education.

As part of this commitment, the district is expanding mental health support, addressing disparities in education, and fostering safe spaces for LGBTQ+ students, families, and staff. The district also highlighted the importance of celebrating diversity and closing achievement gaps.

Additionally, LBUSD is implementing California’s Menstrual Equity for All Act, ensuring free menstrual products are available in all girls’ restrooms, gender-neutral restrooms, and at least one boys’ restroom on each campus. This initiative, which began in the 2024-25 school year, applies to students in grades 3-12, with dispensers being installed across school sites.

However, not all parents are sure this is the right approach. Some have expressed concerns about the focus on LGBTQ+ issues in schools, questioning whether these initiatives align with all families’ values. Others worry about how these policies will be implemented and what impact they may have on students.

Despite differing opinions, LBUSD maintains that creating an inclusive and accepting environment is essential for student success. The district encourages families to learn more about its efforts by visiting lbschools.net/LGBTQ.

Congressman Garcia Faces Censure Over Elon Musk ‘Dick Pic’ Remarks, Escalating Political Tensions

The political landscape in Washington has been rocked by a heated controversy involving Representative Robert Garcia (former Mayor of Long Beach) and tech billionaire Elon Musk, who currently holds a role in the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The situation has escalated to the point where House Republicans, led by Rep. Nancy Mace, have introduced a resolution to censure Garcia over his recent remarks, which some have interpreted as a call for violence against Musk.

The Controversial Remarks

The uproar began during a House subcommittee hearing when Garcia criticized Musk’s leadership and policies. At one point, he referred to Musk as a “dick” and later, in a CNN interview, stated “What I think is really important and what the American public want is for us to bring actual weapons to this bar fight. This is an actual fight for democracy, for the future of this country. And it’s important to push back on the chairperson of this committee” when discussing opposition to Musk’s policies. These remarks quickly ignited backlash, with critics accusing Garcia of inciting violence against a federal official.

Republican Response and Calls for Censure

Rep. Nancy Mace responded swiftly, labeling Garcia’s words as “dangerous and deranged.” She argued that no elected official should make statements that could be interpreted as advocating violence, regardless of intent. Mace has filed a formal resolution to censure Garcia, a move that, if passed, would require him to stand before the House for a public reading of his reprimand.

DOJ Inquiry Adds Legal Pressure

The controversy has now drawn the attention of the U.S. Department of Justice. In a letter dated February 17, U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr. formally requested that Garcia clarify his statements, citing concerns that they could be perceived as a threat to Musk and government employees working under him.

Read more on our website link in bio #longbeach

Drive-By Shooting on Rose Ave Leaves One Injured,

Drive-By Shooting on Rose Ave Leaves One Injured, Dog Wounded

A shooting on the 1400 block of Rose Avenue left one person injured and their dog also wounded, according to Long Beach Police at 11:23PM Wednesday night.

Officers from the Long Beach Police and paramedics from the Long Beach Fire responded to the scene at approximately 11:23 p.m. The victim sustained a gunshot wound to the lower body but was reported to be conscious and breathing.

Witnesses in the area reported seeing a vehicle driving by as shots were fired. Officers discovered shell casings and multiple vehicles with strike marks at the scene. The northbound lanes of Rose Avenue are currently blocked north of Anaheim Street as the investigation continues.

In an update, LBPD confirmed that officers were transporting the victim’s injured dog to an emergency veterinary clinic.

Authorities have not released any suspect information at this time. The investigation remains ongoing. Notified by @streaming562

Armed Suspect Robs Brink’s Armored Truck Outside

Armed Suspect Robs Brink’s Armored Truck Outside Chase Bank

A man armed with a rifle robbed a Brink’s armored vehicle outside a Chase Bank near Spring Street and Palo Verde Avenue around 1:15 p.m. Wednesday, police reported.

According to authorities, the suspect stole the driver’s handgun and an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene.

Witnesses described the suspect as a Black male wearing a ski mask and green, Army-style clothing. He was estimated to be between 5’6” and 5’8” tall.

A witnessed of the robbery saw from the Amazon parking lot across the street that they initially thought the altercation involved homeless individuals before realizing it was a robbery in progress.

“I was across the street in the Amazon parking lot when I heard and saw the struggle. I thought at first it was a couple of homeless until I saw one suspect pulling something from the armored driver. The suspect I saw had a rifle in his left arm. They got into a silver car and left west on Spring,”

Police have not released any further details on the suspect or vehicle. No injuries were immediately reported.

This is a developing story. More updates will be provided as information becomes available. Photo by Kristin Schroyer

Police are investigating two separate violent inci

Police are investigating two separate violent incidents that occurred overnight, leaving two men injured.

The first incident took place on Feb. 18, 2025, at approximately 8:08 p.m. at the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and Artesia Boulevard. Officers responded to reports of a stabbing and found a male adult suffering from non-life-threatening stab wounds to the upper body. Paramedics from the Long Beach Fire Department transported the victim to a local hospital. Authorities are still investigating the motive, circumstances, and suspect information.

Hours later, at 3:02 a.m. on Feb. 19, 2025, officers were called to the 2000 block of Cedar Avenue following reports of a shooting. They discovered a male adult with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds to the lower body. Investigators believe the victim was walking outside when he was approached by a male suspect on a bicycle, who then opened fire before fleeing the scene. The victim was also transported to a local hospital by paramedics.

Both cases remain under investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Man Killed After Being Hit by Multiple Vehicles in

Man Killed After Being Hit by Multiple Vehicles in Long Beach

A pedestrian was struck and killed late Tuesday night in Long Beach, prompting an investigation by the Collision Investigation Detail.

According to the Long Beach Police, officers responded to reports of a traffic collision at approximately 11:17 p.m. on February 18, 2025, at the intersection of Anaheim Street and Roycroft Avenue. Upon arrival, they found a male adult pedestrian lying in the westbound lanes of Anaheim Street. Long Beach Fire personnel pronounced him dead at the scene.

Preliminary findings indicate that a 2021 Volkswagen ID was traveling westbound on Anaheim Street when the driver saw the pedestrian suddenly jump from the sidewalk into the roadway. Unable to stop in time, the driver struck the pedestrian. Authorities believe the pedestrian remained in the roadway and may have been hit by two additional vehicles.

All three drivers remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. Police have ruled out speed, reckless driving, or impairment as contributing factors in the incident.

The identity of the deceased has not been released, pending notification of next of kin by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner.

Authorities urge anyone who may have witnessed the collision to contact LBPD Collision Investigation Detail Detective Efrain Pineda at (562) 570-7355. Anonymous tips can be submitted through LA Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), using the “P3 TIPS” smartphone app, or visiting www.LACrimeStoppers.org.

Long Beach Launches “Love Your Block” Initiati

Long Beach Launches “Love Your Block” Initiative to Empower Residents and Strengthen Neighborhoods

The City of Long Beach, in collaboration with the Bloomberg Center for Public Innovation at Johns Hopkins University, has launched Love Your Block, a new initiative designed to empower residents to take an active role in enhancing their communities. By joining this national network of cities, Long Beach is reinforcing its commitment to fostering resident-led projects that create lasting, positive change.

“Love Your Block is about bringing people together to build on the strengths of our neighborhoods and empower residents to take the lead in shaping their communities,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “By working directly with the people who live and breathe these spaces every day, we can create solutions that reflect their needs and aspirations. I encourage all residents to get involved and be part of this exciting opportunity.”

Long Beach residents—especially those in West Long Beach—are encouraged to participate in several ways, including applying for a mini-grant, joining the Love Your Block Civic Deliberation Team, or volunteering for the initiative. The Love Your Block Interest Form is now open and will remain available for the duration of the program, allowing residents to receive updates, guidance, and resources as they prepare for the grant application launch on Earth Day, April 22, 2025.

“Love Your Block is an opportunity to support resident-led projects that will make a meaningful impact. I look forward to seeing how this program will help strengthen connections and enhance the places we all call home,” said Vice Mayor and Seventh District Councilmember Roberto Uranga.

As Love Your Block moves through its development phase, additional details about the mini-grant process and the Civic Deliberation Team will be announced in the coming weeks.

Read more on our website

Long Beach Faces Police Shortage as Crime Rates Cl

Long Beach Faces Police Shortage as Crime Rates Climb

A shortage of police officers in Long Beach is contributing to an uptick in violent crime, with homicides, robberies, and commercial burglaries all rising over the past year. The Long Beach Police Department (LBPD), which has struggled with staffing shortages, is now dealing with increased crime levels as it works to maintain public safety.

According to recently released crime statistics, homicides in Long Beach increased from 26 in 2023 to 38 in 2024, marking the highest total since 2021. The most significant increases were recorded in the East Division, where murders spiked from 2 to 11, and the North Division, where the number doubled from 6 to 12. Additionally, commercial burglaries rose by 55.6% citywide, with the biggest jump occurring in the South Division, where they increased by 74.5%. Robberies also saw an 18.5% increase, surpassing 1,100 incidents for the first time since 2017.

Gun violence has also become a growing concern. Between January and April 2024, officers responded to 114 reports of gunfire, up from 105 during the same period in 2023. Murders during that time increased from six to eleven.

The Long Beach Police Officers Association has expressed concerns about the impact of understaffing, arguing that without additional recruitment and retention efforts, crime could continue to rise. City officials are exploring ways to boost hiring while balancing the department’s budget.

For now, residents are urged to remain vigilant and take precautions as the city works to address both crime and the police shortage.

Hundreds Protest in Long Beach as Part of Nationwi

Hundreds Protest in Long Beach as Part of Nationwide Presidents Day Protests Against Trump Policies

Hundreds of protesters gathered in Long Beach today as part of a nationwide movement called the 50501 Movement, which organized demonstrations in all 50 states to oppose the Trump administration. The protest was held on Presidents’ Day and took place outside Long Beach City Hall, where participants chanted with signs, and demanded action against what they describe as threats to democracy.

The demonstration was one of many across the country, with activists opposing policies related to immigration, civil service purges, and alleged unconstitutional actions by the administration. The protest in Long Beach remained peaceful, with organizers emphasizing nonviolent resistance. However, some participants expressed concerns about the broader political climate and the need for continued civic engagement.

While no single group claimed full responsibility for organizing the Long Beach protest, information about the event was widely shared on social media platforms, including Reddit and Instagram. Flyers for the event encouraged people to gather without formal leadership, a strategy mirrored in other cities across the United States.

Law enforcement maintained a presence at the protest but reported no major incidents. Organizers and attendees stressed that their goal was to send a clear message that “President, not King,” a slogan that has become a rallying cry against what they see as authoritarian tendencies in the current administration.

The nationwide protests highlight growing tensions leading up to the 2026 elections, with activists promising continued demonstrations in the coming months.

Rising Gun and Gang Violence in Long Beach: Recent

Rising Gun and Gang Violence in Long Beach: Recent Homicide Adds to Growing Concern

A deadly shooting in Long Beach on February 16, 2025, has once again highlighted the persistent issue of gang and gun violence plaguing the city. The latest incident, which occurred in broad daylight, left one man dead and another injured, further raising concerns among residents and law enforcement about escalating gang-related crime.

At approximately 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Long Beach police officers responded to a shots-fired call in the 1700 block of Long Beach Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers found evidence of a shooting but no immediate victims at the scene. Shortly after, authorities were notified that two male victims suffering from gunshot wounds had been dropped off at a local hospital. One of the victims, identified as Edgar Ortiz-Escamilla, a 32-year-old Long Beach resident, later succumbed to his injuries. The second victim, whose identity has not been released, is in stable condition.

According to Long Beach homicide detectives, the shooting is believed to be gang-related, though the motive and circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation. Police have not announced any arrests or identified any suspects. The killing of Ortiz-Escamilla adds to a troubling pattern of gun-related violence in Long Beach, where gang activity continues to drive homicides and shootings. Law enforcement officials have long battled gang-related crime in the city, but a recent uptick in gun violence has left communities on edge.

According to Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) data, the city has seen a rise in gang-related shootings over the past year, with many incidents occurring in broad daylight and in high-traffic areas. Residents and business owners near Long Beach Boulevard have expressed concerns over safety, urging city officials to take more aggressive action against gang violence. “It’s terrifying to think that someone could be shot just down the street in the middle of the afternoon,” said one local resident, who wished to remain anonymous. “We need more police presence and tougher consequences for those committing these crimes.”

Two car collision at Spring and Studebaker just af

Two car collision at Spring and Studebaker just after 11:30am. One elderly patient being evaluated. Traffic lights are out of service cars backing up, avoid the area.

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