LOS ANGELES – Today, Mayor Bass sent the following letter to LAFD Interim Fire Chief Ronnie Villanueva:
October 31, 2025
Dear Interim Chief Villanueva,
This week's report about the Lachman Fire is tremendously alarming, and underscores the reforms and new leadership we have been bringing to the Los Angeles Fire Department since January. Make no mistake, our city's firefighters are heroes every day. We owe it to them and the people of Los Angeles to make sure that their fire department is led, organized and ready for whatever emergencies may arise.
Many investigations, and some ongoing, have been looking into the January wildfires. I am requesting that you thoroughly investigate this week's report regarding the Lachman Fire. A full understanding of the Lachman Fire response is essential to an accurate accounting of what occurred during the January wildfires. This will continue to guide our ongoing reforms, which include enhancing pre-deployment protocols, strengthening interagency coordination, upgrading communications technology and expanding training at all staff levels.
Sincerely,
Karen Bass
Mayor