Investigators Conduct Controlled Fire Tests in Pacific Palisades
In the coming days, the Pacific Palisades area will see flames again as federal investigators initiate controlled fire tests aimed at uncovering the cause of the devastating fire that occurred in January. This tragic incident resulted in the loss of twelve lives and destroyed thousands of homes.
Timeline of the Investigation
The investigation, led by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), has progressed over the last four months. The upcoming fire tests will take place on the Temescal Ridge Trail between Skull Rock and Green Peak, starting Tuesday night and lasting until Thursday.
Details of the January Fire
Officials first detected the Palisades fire around 10:30 AM on January 7, when strong winds spread flames across the parched landscape. The ATF is optimistic that these controlled burns will assist in pinpointing the fire’s origin and understanding how it spread from the hills to the ocean amidst a substantial windstorm.
Investigation Focus
Sources involved with the investigation indicate that there is particular scrutiny on an eight-acre wildfire ignited by suspected fireworks just a week prior, which was thought to have been extinguished. Investigators are considering whether this previous blaze rekindled on January 7 or if a new fire started entirely.
Safety Measures in Place
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) will have personnel present throughout the testing period to ensure both public safety and environmental protection. There are indications that the fire was likely human-caused, as no power lines are located near the origin area, and the trail is frequented by hikers.
Legal and Administrative Fallout
In light of the significant damage inflicted by the Palisades fire, which could be the most costly disaster in Los Angeles history, some homeowners have filed lawsuits alleging that power lines contributed to the devastation. The mayor’s actions prior to the fire have also come under heavy criticism, particularly her trip to Ghana just days before the incident, amid warnings of hazardous wind conditions.
Operational Challenges During the Fire
On January 1, a fire was reported in the area around 12:17 AM, with initial reports indicating it was caused by fireworks. When the fire broke out, water-dropping helicopters faced challenges flying due to high winds but commenced aerial firefighting operations around 1:40 AM.
Post-Fire Investigation Efforts
In the aftermath of the blaze, investigators divided the affected trail and hillside into grids for thorough examination, reviewing over 250 leads and conducting 50 interviews while analyzing 90 hours of pertinent video footage. In a significant administrative change, the mayor recently removed LAFD Fire Chief Kristin Crowley from her position, citing her deployment decisions preceding the fire.
Conclusion
The Pacific Palisades fire remains a pivotal focus for both the city and investigators as they work to determine the causes and better prepare for future incidents. With such a significant loss and ongoing legal challenges, the ramifications of this disaster are far-reaching and continue to evolve.