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Suspicious Fires Erupt in Long Beach; No Injuries Reported
Long Beach Police to Conduct DUI Checkpoint on May 16
Long Beach Faces Projected $20 Million Shortfall in 2026 Amid Fiscal Uncertainty
Two Men Killed in Wrong-Way Crash on Seventh Street
Police Arrest 15-Year-Old Suspect in April Murder Near Grand Prix

Long Beach Local News Weekly 2/25/17

February 25, 2017February 24, 2017 LBLN

Weekly News Update 2/25/17

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Suspicious Fires Erupt in Long Beach; No Injuries

Suspicious Fires Erupt in Long Beach; No Injuries Reported

Long Beach, CA — Two suspicious fires broke out in Long Beach this afternoon, prompting swift responses from local fire crews.

At approximately 4:20 PM, Long Beach firefighters responded to a contents tunnel fire near the southbound 405 Freeway and Long Beach Boulevard. Crews executed a confined space entry to suppress the blaze and successfully knocked down the flames.

Shortly after, a second fire ignited near Del Mar Avenue and Terry Lane at a nearby storage yard. Large plastic tubing caught fire, creating heavy smoke before firefighters brought the situation under control.

Both incidents are being treated as suspicious, and fire investigators remain on scene to determine the cause. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported in connection with either fire.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the fires to contact local officials. Video by @longbeachfire

Long Beach Police to Conduct DUI Checkpoint on May

Long Beach Police to Conduct DUI Checkpoint on May 16

LONG BEACH, CA – The Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) will hold a Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and Driver License (CDL) checkpoint on May 16, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. in the South Division area. The checkpoint aims to enhance public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the roads.

The location was chosen based on data highlighting areas with frequent impaired driving-related crashes. Commander Jeremy Boshnack emphasized the dangers of impaired driving, stating, “Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk. Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers significantly improve traffic safety.”

The LBPD reminds drivers that impairment is not limited to alcohol. Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and marijuana—despite being legal for medicinal and recreational use—can impair driving ability and are illegal when operating a vehicle. First-time DUI offenders face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, along with a suspended license.

This checkpoint is funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Long Beach Faces $61.5M Budget Deficit: What’s B

Long Beach Faces $61.5M Budget Deficit: What’s Behind the Cuts, Spending, and High Salaries?

Long Beach is facing a $61.5 million budget deficit over the next five years, starting with $7 million in cuts this year from its $3.6 billion budget. City Manager Tom Modica is leading the effort—but his $336K salary and those of other top officials are drawing scrutiny.

Why Cut Now?
The city must save $7 million in 2025 to prepare for a $20M shortfall in 2026. Key pressures include:
• Declining Oil Revenue: Offshore oil is projected to drop 54% by 2035, and cleanup could cost $80M.
• Uncertain Federal Funds: Long Beach received $315M last year. New federal policies may shrink that support.
• Rising Costs, Flat Revenue: Salaries are increasing, but tax revenue is stagnant.

Why Phase Out Oil?
The city is moving away from oil for environmental, economic, and community health reasons. Old wells are costly, and residents want cleaner air and sustainable growth.

Why Spend on Events and Neighborhoods?
Despite the deficit, investments continue in tourism (e.g., Grand Prix) and underserved areas to drive economic growth and reduce inequality—based on resident input prioritizing homelessness, safety, and education.

High Salaries in Focus
Modica’s pay rose from $290K in 2020 to $336K in 2023, due to CPI-based increases—though he donated portions in recent years. Other top earners include the Police Chief ($284K) and Fire Chief ($274K). Over 1,700 employees earn $100K+, with the top salary at $399K. Trimming these salaries could save $1–2M but risks talent loss.

How Cuts Are Happening
All departments must trim 0.5–1% by May 15 via purchase delays, travel cuts, hiring pauses, and fleet reductions. No layoffs are planned.

What’s Next?
Public hearings are underway. The 2026 budget is due by September. Balancing cuts, spending, and pay is crucial to Long Beach’s financial future.

Read more about this on our website link in story.

Two Men Killed in Wrong-Way Crash on Seventh Stree

Two Men Killed in Wrong-Way Crash on Seventh Street

LONG BEACH, Calif. — A devastating collision involving a wrong-way driver claimed the lives of two men early Wednesday morning on Seventh Street, the Long Beach Police Department reported.

The crash occurred around 6:20 a.m. near the intersection of Seventh Street and Terraine Avenue, just east of Recreation Park. According to police spokesperson Eric Stachura, preliminary findings indicate a male driver was traveling on the wrong side of the road when his vehicle collided with another.

Both drivers were pronounced dead at the scene, Stachura confirmed. The investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the circumstances leading to the crash.

Police have closed Seventh Street between Santiago Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway, with the closure expected to last several hours. Motorists are advised to avoid the area.

This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

Long Beach Police Arrest 15-Year-Old Suspect in Ap

Long Beach Police Arrest 15-Year-Old Suspect in April Murder Near Grand Prix
LONG BEACH, CA – On May 4, 2025, Long Beach Police Department Homicide Detectives arrested a 15-year-old suspect in connection with the April 12, 2025, murder of 21-year-old Brandon Villarreal in the 0 block of Cedar Walk, near the Long Beach Grand Prix during the event’s festivities.
Following an extensive investigation, detectives identified the suspect, a Long Beach resident, and learned he had traveled to Las Vegas, Nevada. Upon receiving information that the suspect was returning to California on May 4, detectives obtained an arrest warrant and apprehended him during a pedestrian stop in Barstow, California. The suspect was processed at Long Beach City Jail and transported to Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall, where he was booked for murder with no bail set.
The motive for the killing remains under investigation, and the case has been presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for review.
The Long Beach Police Department expressed gratitude to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and the FBI Criminal Apprehension Team for their assistance in the case.
Authorities are seeking additional information from the public. Anyone with details related to the incident is urged to contact Homicide Detectives Eric Thai or Chasen Contreras at (562) 570-7244.
This is an ongoing investigation, and further updates will be provided as available.

Homicide Detectives Investigate Stabbing Death in

Homicide Detectives Investigate Stabbing Death in Long Beach

LONG BEACH, CA — On May 5, 2025, at approximately 7:40 a.m., Long Beach Police Department officers responded to reports of a male adult with a stab wound in the 200 block of West Wardlow Road at Regent Villa assisted living residence. Upon arrival, officers provided medical aid until Long Beach Fire Department personnel took over, later pronouncing the victim deceased at the scene.

Homicide detectives are now investigating the undetermined death, with the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner tasked with determining the official cause of death. The victim’s identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin by the Los Angeles County Department of the Medical Examiner.

The motive and circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Long Beach Police Department.

Help Mayor Rex and the City of Long Beach Clean Up

Help Mayor Rex and the City of Long Beach Clean Up the Trash.

The Long Beach Citywide Spring Cleaning is back, and they need YOUR help to clean the city.

Throughout May, the City and Mayor Rex Richardson are teaming up with Neighborhood Associations, Community Groups, small businesses, and dedicated residents like you to beautify Long Beach through a series of cleanup events.

Ready to pitch in? Visit longbeach.gov/springcleaning or click the link in our bio to find out how you can get involved. Video by City of Long Beach

Someone get your children and someone support @swe

Someone get your children and someone support @sweet_jills_bakery this week.

LA County Workers Launch 48-Hour Strike as Thousan

LA County Workers Launch 48-Hour Strike as Thousands Rally Across Region, Including Long Beach

Today, the City of Long Beach Mayor and officials

Today, the City of Long Beach Mayor and officials held a press conference to commemorate the demolition of the English Village, a former themed shopping space located adjacent to The Queen Mary at Queens Highway and Windsor Way.

Vacant for several years, the Village had become a public safety concern, and its removal will eliminate existing hazards. The demolition marks a significant step forward in revitalizing the area, paving the way for expanded parking and event space that will support ongoing economic growth around the iconic Queen Mary.

UPDATE LOCATED 4/24/25 9:00 p.m. On April 24, 2025

Long Beach City to Host and Fund 2025 Pride Parade

Long Beach City to Host and Fund 2025 Pride Parade Festival

Long Beach, CA – The City of Long Beach announced it will once again host the Long Beach Pride Parade in 2025, continuing a celebrated tradition that highlights the city’s LGBTQ+ community and values of inclusion and unity. The parade, now in its 42nd year, will take place on Sunday, May 18, 2025, along Ocean and Alamitos Boulevards in Downtown Long Beach.

But with the announcement came renewed questions from residents and advocacy groups about city spending. In 2024, Long Beach allocated $130,000 to host the parade—$80,000 from the city’s budget and $50,000 from Council District Two’s one-time funds. Critics argue that while Pride is important, rising concerns over housing, public safety, and infrastructure demand more scrutiny in how funds are allocated.

This year’s Grand Marshals include Councilwoman Allen, Carolyn Caldwell, Jennifer Kumiyama, and others recognized for their impact on the LGBTQ+ community. Organizations can apply to participate in the parade through May 9, with no entry fee.

The City, Port of Long Beach, and Council District Two are co-sponsoring this year’s parade. Mayor Rex Richardson emphasized the event’s importance: “The Long Beach Pride Parade is more than just a celebration—it’s a cherished tradition that reflects the heart and soul of our city… reminding us of the power of living authentically and standing together.”

However, as the City continues to face budget constraints and rising costs of essential services, residents are asking for more transparency and deliberation around how much is being allocated to events, versus core needs. With no entry fee for participating organizations in the parade, questions also arise around whether the City is covering additional costs and what return on investment such sponsorships provide.

Applications for parade participation are open now through May 9, 2025, with no cost to join. The City has not released a full breakdown of budgetary allocations for the event, nor whether sponsorships will offset all public expenses.

Read more on our website

LBPD Release Photos of Abused Dog Now in Loving Ca

LBPD Release Photos of Abused Dog Now in Loving Care After Arrest of Suspect

Thanks to the swift investigative work by Long Beach Police detectives and the incredible support from the community a suspect involved in an animal abuse incident has been arrested and the dog is safe.

Long Beach Police @longbeachpd.ca have released 2 photos of the rescued dog, who is now safe and in good condition under the care of Long Beach Animal Care Services @lbanimalcare

We’re grateful for everyone who sent a dm, commented and stepped up to help bring the dog to safety.

#LongBeachPD #AnimalRescue #JusticeForAnimals #CommunityStrong #LBAnimalCare #lbpd

UPDATE Man Arrested in Long Beach Dog Abuse Case,

UPDATE Man Arrested in Long Beach Dog Abuse Case, Animal Safe and in Protective Care

Long Beach, CA – April 23, 2025 — The man caught on video violently slamming a dog to the ground in Long Beach has been located and arrested, police announced this evening. The incident, which occurred in the 200 block of E. 12th Street, sparked widespread outrage across the community and prompted an urgent investigation.

Long Beach Police Department detectives worked swiftly to identify and apprehend the suspect, who is now in custody. The abused dog has been rescued and is currently in the care of Long Beach Animal Care Services, where it is receiving the attention and protection it needs.

“This type of cruelty has no place in our community,” said Police Chief Wally Hebeish. “I want to thank our detectives and officers for their outstanding work in swiftly identifying and apprehending the suspect. We remain committed to ensuring those who harm others—especially the most vulnerable—are held accountable. We recognize the deep concern this incident caused throughout our community and appreciate the public’s assistance in sharing critical information.”

Authorities have not yet released the identity of the suspect or details about the dog’s condition but confirmed the investigation is ongoing.

The incident drew significant attention on social media after video footage circulated, showing the suspect abusing the animal in broad daylight. Community members expressed outrage and called for immediate action, which police responded to with urgency.

The Long Beach Police Department encourages anyone with further information related to the case to come forward.

PETA Offers $5,000 Reward After Shocking Dog Abuse

PETA Offers $5,000 Reward After Shocking Dog Abuse Caught on Video in Long Beach

LONG BEACH, CA – The Long Beach Police Department is investigating a disturbing act of animal abuse caught on camera early Monday morning. Now, PETA is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the man responsible.

At around 5:30 a.m. on April 21, outside the 200 block of E. 12th Street, security footage captured a man lifting a dog by its leash, slamming it to the ground, and kicking it in the head. He then picked the dog up again and walked away with the animal hanging behind his back.

The suspect was wearing orange pants, a red flannel shirt, a black backpack, and was carrying a skateboard.

The video was posted to Instagram by the @kriskellyfoundation, where hundreds of users expressed horror and heartbreak. One user wrote, “This has to be one of the worst cases of abuse I have seen on IG… This poor dog could not have possibly survived.”

LBPD confirmed officers responded to the scene and took an animal cruelty report.

“Animal abuse is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” LBPD said in a statement on X. “The investigation is ongoing.”

PETA has stepped in, offering a $5,000 reward for any information that leads to the suspect’s arrest and conviction.

“Anyone capable of this violence is a danger to both animals and humans,” a spokesperson said.

If you have any information, please contact:
• Long Beach Police Non-Emergency: (562) 435-6711
• Anonymous Tip Line: (800) 222-8477

Please share and speak up. This dog deserves justice.

#LongBeach #AnimalAbuse #JusticeForAnimals #PETAReward #KrisKellyFoundation #StopAnimalCruelty @peta

**WARNING DISTURBING VIDEO** Caught on Camera: M

**WARNING DISTURBING VIDEO**

Caught on Camera: Man Seen Slamming Dog to Ground in Long Beach

LONG BEACH, CA – A shocking act of animal abuse was caught on surveillance footage early Monday morning in Long Beach, prompting outrage from the community and urgent calls for public assistance in identifying the suspect.

At 5:36 AM on April 21st, outside 235 E. 12th Street, a man was recorded violently slamming a dog to the ground. The graphic footage shows the suspect forcefully throwing the dog onto the pavement before walking away. The condition and whereabouts of the dog are currently unknown. The Long Beach Police Department is aware of the incident and investigating.

Neighbors who reviewed the footage described the scene as “sickening” and “heartbreaking.” Many in the area are stunned by the violence and hope the footage will lead to swift justice.

“This isn’t just about punishment, it’s about protecting innocent animals and making sure this doesn’t happen again,” said a concerned resident who lives near the scene.

The Kris Kelly Foundation and local animal advocates are urging anyone with information to come forward. Whether you recognize the man, the dog, or have seen anything suspicious in the area around that time, your tip could be crucial.

If you have any information, please contact:
• Long Beach Animal Control: (562) 570-7387
• After Hours / Police Dispatch: (562) 435-6711
• Anonymous Tip Line: (800) 222-8477

The Kris Kelly Foundation, which works to rescue and protect animals across California, is also pushing for the public to share this story and help spread the footage in hopes of identifying the suspect.

@kriskellyfoundation #LongBeach #AnimalAbuse #JusticeForAnimals #StopAnimalCruelty

Diesel Spill Shuts Down Northbound 710 Freeway in

Diesel Spill Shuts Down Northbound 710 Freeway in Long Beach

LONG BEACH, Calif. — A major diesel spill has forced the closure of all lanes on the northbound 710 Freeway near Del Amo Boulevard in Long Beach, prompting the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to issue a SigAlert early Thursday morning.

The alert was issued at 4:54 a.m., and officials say the closure is expected to remain in effect until at least noon. Traffic is being diverted off the freeway at Del Amo Boulevard as cleanup crews work to clear the hazardous spill.

Drivers are strongly urged to avoid the area and use alternate routes to minimize delays. In addition to the diesel spill, a separate crash has also led to the closure of the northbound 710 at the 405 Freeway, worsening traffic congestion throughout the area.

Motorists should expect significant backups and plan accordingly. Photo by SkyFox

@millerchildrens Young Patients Become Animal Care

@millerchildrens Young Patients Become Animal Care Experts for a Day at @aquariumpacific

In celebration of National Dolphin Day on April 14, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach hosted young patients from Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital for a unique, hands-on experience exploring the world of veterinary care led by the hospital’s beloved mascot, Millie the Dolphin.

Dressed in lab coats, pediatric patients stepped into the role of animal care experts for the day, learning how veterinarians treat and heal marine life. From cleaning and bandaging an “injured” plush puffin to listening to a tortoise’s heartbeat and watching how anesthesia is safely administered to large animals, the kids saw just how similar animal care is to their own medical experiences.

“For Millie’s special day, we wanted to give our patients a chance to connect with healing in a new way,” said Rita Goshert, director of the Cherese Mari Laulhere Child Life Program. “It was incredible to watch them play, learn, and smile outside the hospital.”

Led by Aquarium veterinarian Dr. Brittany Stevens and vet tech Louise Leborgne, the visit offered an empowering parallel between human and animal healthcare. Real X-rays, medical tools, and recovery stories helped the children see themselves not just as patients, but as healers too.

Among the participants was 7-year-old Sage, who has been receiving treatment for leukemia. For her mother, the event was more than just educational, it was emotional. “She’s spent so much time being cared for. Seeing her as the one giving care was so powerful.”

This special Dolphin Day reminded everyone that resilience, compassion, and care are universal whether you walk on two legs or swim with fins.

City of Long Beach to Host 11 Olympic Events in 20

City of Long Beach to Host 11 Olympic Events in 2028

Long Beach, CA – In a major development for the 2028 Olympic Games, the City of Long Beach has been officially confirmed to host 11 sporting events, more than double the number originally proposed during LA’s initial bid. The announcement was made today following the International Olympic Committee Executive Board’s approval of the updated LA28 Olympic Venue Plan on April 9, 2025.

Originally slated for just five events, Long Beach’s role in the Olympics has significantly expanded, raising both excitement and serious questions about the city’s preparedness. The added events include Beach Volleyball, Coastal Rowing, Sport Climbing, and Target Shooting joining the previously confirmed lineup of Sailing, Water Polo, Artistic Swimming, Marathon Swimming, Canoe-Sprint, Rowing, and Handball.

Highlights of the updated plan include:
• Beach Volleyball at Alamitos Beach
• Coastal Rowing making its Olympic debut along the Long Beach waterfront
• Sport Climbing and Target Shooting in the Long Beach Convention Center lot, with temporary venues offering striking ocean views

In total, the events will be spread across six locations in the city. While the expanded role promises increased international visibility and economic benefits, it also brings substantial logistical and infrastructural challenges.

Long Beach has already launched a Strategic Roadmap and a dedicated LA28 webpage to guide preparations, but with just over three years to go before the opening ceremonies on July 14, 2028, questions remain: Can Long Beach deliver on this promise? Is the city truly ready to take on the increased scope of Olympic hosting duties?

While the economic and cultural potential is enormous, success will depend on timely infrastructure upgrades, effective crowd management strategies, and coordination with LA28 to ensure everything is ready by 2028. As the spotlight turns to Long Beach, the world will be watching not just the games, but how the city rises to this historic occasion.

Read more details on our website link in bio

#LA28 #LongBeach2028 #Olympics2028 #RoadToLA28

Long Beach City Delays Nearly 2 Years to Disclose

Long Beach City Delays Nearly 2 Years to Disclose Breach Exposing SSNs, IDs, Biometric Data

Long Beach, CA – April 14, 2025 – In a long-awaited move, the City of Long Beach is notifying individuals whose personal information may have been compromised in a November 2023 cyberattack—17 months after the incident occurred.

The breach, which involved an unauthorized party accessing the City’s network, was initially disclosed in late 2023. But only now is the City issuing official notices to affected individuals and offering free credit monitoring services for some. The delay raises serious questions about why it took so long to alert the public, especially given the nature of the sensitive data involved.

According to officials, the breached files may have contained names alongside Social Security numbers, financial account details, medical information, driver’s license numbers, and even biometric data. While the City maintains there’s no evidence of fraud or misuse, the sheer scope of exposed personal information has sparked concern.

“Data security is of the utmost importance,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “We will continue to be as transparent as we can.” But with the notification letters only going out now, many residents are left wondering: Why wasn’t this level of transparency offered sooner?

City Manager Tom Modica defended the timeline, citing the complexity of the forensic investigation, which was only completed in March 2025. “We understand this news may resurface concern and angst for our residents,” Modica said, assuring the public that cybersecurity remains a top priority.

A dedicated call center is now available at 888-802-9667 to answer questions, though callers are warned not to share personal information over the phone.

To bolster security going forward, the City has invested $1 million in its FY 2025 budget for cybersecurity infrastructure, training, and data loss prevention. But for those potentially affected, that may be little comfort.

More information, including multilingual FAQs, can be found at longbeach.gov/networksecurityincident.

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