BREAKING: Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has just announced the appointment of Jaime Moore as the new fire chief, following the city’s most destructive wildfire in history. This decision comes just months after Bass ousted the previous chief amid public outcry over the handling of the devastating Palisades Fire that began on January 7, 2023.
The Palisades Fire wreaked havoc on the affluent LA neighborhood, damaging or destroying nearly 8,000 homes and businesses, and tragically claiming at least 12 lives. Moore’s appointment signals a critical shift as the city grapples with the fallout from this catastrophe and prepares for future emergencies.
Moore, a 30-year veteran of the Los Angeles Fire Department, is stepping into this role after a rigorous selection process that reviewed more than 100 candidates. He has expressed his commitment to implementing strategic changes aimed at disaster preparedness, enhancing department morale, and ensuring adequate staffing and resources.
“I’m proud to appoint an Angeleno to this role, and I know that he will work to improve the LAFD for everyone in this city,” said Mayor Bass during the announcement.
The firefighters union quickly endorsed Moore’s leadership, stating, “Throughout his career with the LAFD, Chief Moore has shown strong leadership and a deep commitment to the department.” This support underscores the urgency and importance of his new role as the department aims to restore public confidence.
Moore currently oversees operations for the Valley Bureau, which encompasses 39 fire stations and over 980 sworn personnel. His extensive experience within the department, including positions such as assistant chief, positions him well to address ongoing challenges.
Born in Delhi, Louisiana, and raised in Southern California, Moore’s background is both diverse and relatable. He holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a master’s degree in public administration and emergency management from California State University, Long Beach.
This appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Mayor Bass as she prepares for her reelection campaign, navigating a city beset by budget shortages and a homelessness crisis, all while rebuilding from the catastrophic January fires.
Former fire chief Kristin Crowley, the first female chief of the department, was dismissed just six weeks after the Palisades Fire. Her ousting sparked controversy and criticism, with allegations of her being a “scapegoat” for systemic issues within the department. Crowley has since filed a legal claim against the city, accusing Bass of a campaign of misinformation and retaliation.
Adding to the urgency, federal investigators revealed that the Palisades Fire was ignited by a smaller fire set the previous New Year’s Day. As investigations continue, a man accused of starting the fire has pleaded not guilty to federal charges, raising questions about accountability.
As Jaime Moore takes the helm, all eyes will be on his leadership in the face of mounting pressures. The community’s safety and trust in the Los Angeles Fire Department hinge on his ability to navigate these turbulent times effectively.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and what it means for the future of fire safety in Los Angeles.