Bass has appointed former Chief Deputy Ronnie Villanueva as interim fire chief. Villanueva served with the LAFD for 41 years before retiring in September 2024.
On Saturday, a day after her removal, Crowley released a statement saying her 25-year career with LAFD has been an "absolute honor" as she defended her decisions leading the fire department.
"I am extremely proud of the work, sacrifice and dedication of our LAFD members, both sworn and civilian," she said.
At a news conference Friday afternoon, Bass also said a reason for Crowley's removal was her refusal to conduct an after-action report following the fires. Bass is unclear why Crowley refused.
Mayor Karen Bass announced Friday morning that she has officially removed Los Angeles City Fire Chief Kristin Crowley effective immediately. (Myung J. Chun / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images) Myung J. ChunHer decision comes after reported turmoil between the mayor and fire chief following the Palisades Fire that broke out on Jan. 7. The two put on a united front after speculation of the chief's firing days after it erupted.
About a month before the Palisades Fire broke out, Crowley sent a memo to the Board of Fire Commissioners that budget cuts "have adversely affected the Department's ability to maintain core operations." Budget cuts and the department's ability to fight the fires were points of contention while the fires were burning.
Bass praised the first responders for their heroic acts and bravery to the fight the fires. She said bringing in new leadership to the department is what firefighters and the people of LA deserve.
Los Angeles businessman Rick Caruso, who ran against Bass for the mayor's seat in 2022, said Bass' decision to fire Crowley is disappointing.
Friday afternoon, the mayor's office announced Crowley has exercised her civil service rights to stay with the LAFD at a lower rank. It will be up to Interim Chief Villanueva to assigning Crowley her duties, the mayor's office said.
Villanueva served with the LAFD for 41 years before retiring as Chief Deputy of Emergency Operations seven months ago.
In a statement, Bass' said he has decades of experience in fire suppression and emergency management.
The United Firefighters of LA react
The United Firefighters of Los Angeles City president blasted Mayor Karen Bass for her decision to remove Kristin Crowley as Los Angeles Fire Department chief, saying she is a "scapegoat."
"On behalf of the firefighters I represent, I am here to say we are outraged at the termination of fire Chief Crowley, period. In our opinion, Chief Crowley is being made a scapegoat, and she is being terminated for telling the truth."
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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