News Flash! Once again, we received a very important press release after the paper was ready to go to print. So, instead of running the column I had ready for Thoughts From the Publisher, I am suspending my column and replacing it with the following urgent information.
….Thanks, Neena
From: Frank Hayes, Battalion Chief PIO/FP
Long Beach Fire Department
Subject: Multiple Arson Fires
On Monday, June 30, 2008 at 10:53 P.M. Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD) units responded to the report of an unknown fire in the 3000 block of Adriatic Ave.
The first on scene, unit Engine 13 found a small trash fire in the alley with no witness, which was easily extinguished with a portable water extinguisher.
However this was only the beginning of what would ultimately total 14 possible arson fires on the West side of Long Beach that continued until almost 4:00 A.M. the next day.
The subsequent fires consisted of multiple different types in many different diverse areas. There were fires found in trashcans and dumpsters, fires caused by placing combustibles, such as old mattresses against garage doors. There were solitary car fires causing damage to tarps and truck covers, others that caused exposure damage to nearby vehicles consisting of meting bumpers, and paint peeling off of the exteriors due to the high heat levels. There was even damage sustained to a rear sleeping area in a motor home that was parked in an alley.
Some of these fires were very small and involved products of little or no value, however these fires often spread to nearby living areas, such as the case of dumpsters near the eaves of structures, often near bed rooms. In addition to the possible spread of fire, it should be noted that one of the most dangerous activities emergency responders perform is responding to an emergency. Every time emergency units respond there is the possibility of traffic collisions that could (cause) injury or even kill the responders or citizens on the road.
Officers from the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) West Division initiated a search of the area for any suspects on the morning of July 1st, employing members from their K-9 and Helicopter Divisions.
Members from the LBFD Arson Division are actively pursuing this case and ask for the public’s help with any information relating to these incidents.
Anyone with information that could help with this investigation is asked to call the LBFD Arson Hot Line at: (562) 570-2582.
