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Two Found Shot to Death Near 710 Freeway and Del A

Two Found Shot to Death Near 710 Freeway and Del Amo in Long Beach

An investigation is underway after two people were found fatally shot near the 710 Freeway in Long Beach on Wednesday night.

Long Beach police said officers were dispatched along with California Highway Patrol around 8 p.m. to the Compton Creek riverbed near Del Amo Boulevard following reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they discovered two adults suffering from gunshot wounds. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders.

Police have not released the identities of the victims, and no details have been shared about a possible motive or suspect.

Witnesses at the scene said the investigation appeared to focus on a homeless encampment beneath the freeway overpass. Officers were seen canvassing the area with flashlights late into the night.

No arrests have been made. Anyone with information is urged to contact LBPD or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

Long Beach Mayor Unveils $3.7B FY 26 Budget, Seeks

Long Beach Mayor Unveils $3.7B FY 26 Budget, Seeks Community Input

Mayor Rex Richardson introduced the City’s $3.7 billion FY 2026 Budget, including a $188.8 million Capital Improvement Plan. Facing a $16.9 million deficit, down from $30 million due to Measure LB, the budget uses one-time funds to sustain services amid economic uncertainty. Richardson emphasized equity, stating, “We don’t want people to have to choose between health care or paying the rent or making a choice between going to work or the risk of potentially being separated from their families.” Residents can share feedback at six community meetings and five City Council hearings through September.

Budget Overview
Aligned with the Long Beach Strategic Vision 2030, the budget prioritizes public safety, housing, homelessness, economic growth, and infrastructure. It addresses a $60.5 million five-year shortfall through fee increases and program preservation.

Key Investments
• Public Safety & Youth: Funds enhance police, fire, and youth programs like Safe Passages and Hoops After Dark, with youth-led budgeting.

• Homelessness & Housing: Nearly $16 million from Measure A supports senior subsidies, tenant aid, crisis response, and housing.

• Long Beach Values: Over $5 million aids immigrants via legal support, emergency aid, and a “Safe Place” Business Certification. Policies limit federal agent access.

• Economic Growth: Over $8.7 million from land sales funds small business loans, tariff relief, and neighborhood projects.

• Infrastructure: The $188.8 million CIP, part of the $1.1 billion Elevate ‘28 plan, funds street repairs and Olympic preparations.

Community Engagement
Shape the budget at six meetings Five Council hearings starting August 5. Submit feedback at longbeach.gov/fy26.

What It Means for Residents
The budget sustains essential services like safety, housing, and infrastructure but relies on temporary funds, raising sustainability concerns. Community input is vital to balance priorities. Visit longbeach.gov/fy26 for details.

Woman Struck, Killed While Crossing Street in Cali

Woman Struck, Killed While Crossing Street in California Heights

Long Beach, CA – August 2, 2025 — Collision Investigation Detectives with the Long Beach Police Department are investigating a fatal traffic collision that occurred Friday night, resulting in the death of an adult female pedestrian.

The incident took place on August 1, 2025, at approximately 9:05 p.m. Officers were dispatched to the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and 36th Street following reports of a vehicle-pedestrian collision.

When first responders arrived, Long Beach Fire Department personnel determined the pedestrian had died at the scene.

According to the preliminary investigation, the vehicle involved was traveling southbound on Atlantic Avenue when it struck the pedestrian, who was crossing the street. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators.

Police say speed, distracted driving, and impairment do not appear to be contributing factors in the collision.

Witnesses at the scene reported that the woman may have been walking a dog at the time of the incident, though that detail has not yet been confirmed by authorities.

The identity of the deceased will be released by the Los Angeles County Department of the Medical Examiner pending notification of next of kin.

The Long Beach Police Department is asking anyone who witnessed the collision to come forward. Detective David Dougherty of the Collision Investigation Detail can be reached at (562) 570-7355.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted through LA Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), using the “P3 TIPS” smartphone app, or visiting www.LACrimeStoppers.org.

Man Accused of Supporting ISIS Arrested in Long Be

Man Accused of Supporting ISIS Arrested in Long Beach; Bomb Found in Bedroom

A Long Beach man was arrested Thursday on federal charges alleging he provided financial support to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization.

Mark Lorenzo Villanueva, 28, a lawful permanent resident from the Philippines, is accused of sending 12 payments totaling $1,615 over five months to individuals linked to ISIS. He is charged with attempting to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.

Villanueva is scheduled to appear in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles today.

According to a federal affidavit, Villanueva communicated via social media with two individuals claiming to be ISIS fighters. He expressed his desire to support ISIS, offered to send money for weapons and equipment, and said he hoped to fight for the group himself.

“It’s an honor to fight and die for our faith,” he allegedly wrote. “Someday soon, I’ll be joining.”

In another exchange, he claimed to have a bomb and knives. During his arrest, the FBI recovered what appeared to be a bomb from his bedroom.

The money was sent through intermediaries overseas using Western Union.

“Supporting a terrorist group, whether at home or abroad, is a serious risk to our national security,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli. “We will aggressively hunt down and prosecute anyone who provides support or comfort to our enemies.”

The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Colin S. Scott and DOJ Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman.

A criminal complaint is only an allegation. Villanueva is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

UPDATE 9:35pm: Tsunami advisory remains in effect

UPDATE 9:35pm: Tsunami advisory remains in effect for California coast

The tsunami advisory for the California coast is still active. Forecasters now expect the impact to be less than 1 foot above normal tide levels. However, peak high tides are already forecast around 12:20 a.m., shortly before the possible tsunami arrival.

This timing could increase the risk of minor coastal flooding and limited damage, especially in low-lying areas.

Stay away from beaches, harbors, and waterways.

——

Tsunami advisory issued for California coast including Long Beach after 8.8 quake near Russia

A tsunami advisory (upgraded from a watch) is now in effect for the California coast. Stay away from the water. Avoid all beaches, harbors, and waterways until further notice.

This is a developing situation. Authorities urge the public to remain alert and follow official guidance.

MacArthur Park Reopens After Major Renovation, Bri

MacArthur Park Reopens After Major Renovation, Bringing New Life to Cambodia Town

The City of Long Beach celebrated the grand reopening of MacArthur Park on Saturday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that brought out community members, local leaders, and partner organizations. The event marked the completion of a major rehabilitation project designed to revitalize the park and serve as a hub of inspiration, play, and cultural pride for the Cambodia Town neighborhood.

Led by the City’s Sixth Council District, the park’s transformation was shaped by 15 public workshops, stakeholder meetings, 205 park audits, and community surveys. With support from AOC7, Friends of MacArthur Park, LANLT, and design nonprofit City Fabrick, the community-driven Vision Plan produced 17 new ideas to guide the improvements.

The $9.5 million project—funded by $1 million from Measure A and $8.5 million secured by State Senator Lena Gonzalez and Speaker-Emeritus Anthony Rendon—brings a wide range of enhancements:
• New and inclusive playgrounds with culturally inspired shade structures
• Modernized basketball courts with upgraded surfaces, lighting, and fencing
• A walking path with fitness equipment
• Shaded picnic areas, including a pagoda-style shelter
• Lush green spaces supported by a new irrigation system
• Improved pathways, landscaping, and safety features like fencing and lighting

The redesign incorporates landscape elements and architectural styles from Cambodia and Southeast Asia, honoring the heritage of the neighborhood while improving accessibility and inclusivity for all ages and abilities.

MacArthur Park’s reopening is part of the Elevate ’28 Infrastructure Investment Plan, a citywide initiative preparing Long Beach’s public spaces for the future.

To learn more, visit lbelevate28.com.

Sun, Skate, and Sublime: Vans Warped Tour Brings S

Sun, Skate, and Sublime: Vans Warped Tour Brings Scene Back to Life in Long Beach

The Vans Warped Tour stormed back into Long Beach this past weekend, celebrating its 30th anniversary with two massive days of punk, emo, and skate culture at Downtown Long Beach Shorline waterfront.

More than 70 bands took the stage July 26–27, drawing thousands of fans to a sold-out waterfront festival that blended nostalgia with new energy. 311 headlined Saturday night, delivering a high-energy set packed with fan favorites. Acts like A Day To Remember, Dropkick Murphys, The Interrupters, Atmosphere, Bowling for Soup, and Silverstein added to the nonstop lineup, mixing Warped classics with fresh faces.

One of the most powerful moments came when Sublime made a triumphant hometown return, now fronted by Jakob Nowell, son of the late Bradley Nowell. Performing hits like “Santeria” and “Badfish,” Jakob honored his father’s legacy while carving his own presence. The emotional set connected generations and marked a true full-circle moment for Long Beach.

The weekend wasn’t just about music. Fans explored a landscape of skate demos, art installations, pop-up merch stands, and food trucks as ocean breezes swept through the venue. The Ernie Ball Battle of the Bands gave rising artists a shot at stardom, awarding over $100,000 in prizes and delivering standout performances on smaller stages.

For those watching from home, the entire festival was livestreamed on YouTube and Twitch, attracting global viewership and allowing fans around the world to join in. Long Beach itself embraced the event, with bars hosting afterparties and restaurants participating in a Warped-themed “food takeover.”

@roxannesbar Bar hosted pre- and post-show parties, and the city’s “Food Scene Takeover” turned the entire weekend into a community-wide celebration.

Warped’s return to Long Beach wasn’t just a reunion it was a rebirth. And if this weekend proved anything, it’s that the punk scene is far from done.

For more highlights and full performance replays, visit vanswarpedtourlongbeach.com. Photos by @micalaaustin @vanswarpedtour

LBUSD Substitute Staff Member, Coach Accused of Se

LBUSD Substitute Staff Member, Coach Accused of Sexually Assaulting Teen

A Long Beach man has been arrested in connection with the sexual assault of a teenage girl, and detectives believe there may be additional victims tied to other unreported incidents, according to the Long Beach Police Department.

On Thursday, July 24, at approximately 8:24 a.m., Child and Elder Abuse detectives arrested 34-year-old Gabriel Vigil at his residence near Pacific Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway. The arrest followed a weeks-long investigation that began earlier this month.

According to police, the investigation was launched on July 1 after a staff member from Cabrillo High School reported that a female teenage student had been sexually assaulted off-campus by a substitute staff member who was also working as a sports coach. Detectives quickly began gathering evidence and building a case that ultimately led to Vigil’s arrest.

Vigil has been booked on multiple felony charges, including one count of statutory rape, one count of arranging a meeting with a minor for lewd purposes, and one count of contacting a minor to commit a felony. His bail has been set at $100,000.

Authorities say they are concerned there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward.

“We are urging anyone who may have experienced similar incidents or who may have relevant information to reach out,” the department said in a statement.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Child and Elder Abuse Detective Jared Asato at (562) 570-7321. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through LA Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), using the “P3 Tips” app, or visiting www.lacrimestoppers.org.

City Auditor Laura Doud Raises Questions About $44

City Auditor Laura Doud Raises Questions About $444M in Measure A Spending

Long Beach, CA – July 22, 2025
City Auditor Laura Doud has released a new report analyzing the impact of Measure A, the voter-approved sales tax that has generated $521 million since 2017. The report reveals that $444 million has been spent—60% on public safety and 40% on infrastructure—but Doud’s findings and ongoing resident concerns raise questions about whether the funds are delivering results.

Despite $50 million spent on street repairs, Doud’s audit found that one-third of city streets remain in poor or very poor condition. “There is such a significant need for this throughout the city,” she said, noting that at least $20 million more per year is needed over the next three years just to improve road conditions.

Public safety received $268 million, including $168 million for police services and $90 million for fire services. Funding restored patrol units, fire engines, and paramedic positions. Yet residents report ongoing issues with fire department understaffing and slower emergency response times, despite the investment.

The release of the report coincided with Mayor Rex Richardson’s announcement of a citywide crime drop under the S.T.R.O.N.G. Beach Initiative, which claims shootings are down 29%, homicides down 28%, and property crime down 23.5%. But many residents say they still don’t feel safer.

“Perceptions of safety are deeply connected to visible services—reliable emergency response, safe streets, and clean neighborhoods,” said Doud. “That’s where residents want to see improvement.”

Doud emphasized the importance of public oversight. A Citizens’ Advisory Committee exists to review Measure A spending, and upcoming meetings in August and October will allow residents to provide input.

Long Beach Fire is responding to a confined space

Long Beach Fire is responding to a confined space fire in a flood control channel that runs beneath Spring Street, between Clark Avenue and Lakewood Boulevard. Officials believe the fire may have originated from a possible encampment inside the tunnel.

Fatal Collision Under Investigation After Woman Fo

Fatal Collision Under Investigation After Woman Found Deceased Near L.A. River

Long Beach, CA — July 14, 2025

Collision Investigation Detectives are investigating a fatal traffic incident that claimed the life of a woman in the early morning hours of July 13.

At approximately 5:20 a.m., Long Beach police officers were dispatched to the Los Angeles River north of Willow Street following a report of a body in the area. Upon arrival, officers located a deceased adult female lying on the west side of the Los Angeles River bike path.

Personnel from the Long Beach Fire Department responded and confirmed that the woman was dead at the scene.

According to a preliminary investigation, the woman’s injuries suggest she may have fallen from a motorcycle or another moving vehicle. The exact circumstances leading up to the incident remain under investigation.

Authorities reported that witnesses present at the scene have been cooperative with detectives.

The Los Angeles County Department of the Medical Examiner will determine the woman’s identity and notify her next of kin.

Police are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward as the investigation continues.

Off-Duty Federal Agent Faces Felony Charges After

Off-Duty Federal Agent Faces Felony Charges After Alleged Drunken Assault on Long Beach Officer

A U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent is facing multiple felony charges after allegedly assaulting a Long Beach police officer while off-duty and armed earlier this week.

Isaiah Anthony Hodgson, 29, appeared in a Los Angeles County courtroom Friday. He faces four felony charges — including battery on a peace officer and resisting arrest — and three misdemeanor firearm-related charges.

The incident occurred Monday at Shoreline Village. Prosecutors say Hodgson was intoxicated inside a restaurant when he followed a woman into the women’s restroom. The woman reported seeing a firearm and magazine on him and alerted staff.

Hodgson fled but was confronted by a security guard who noticed him holding a magazine and with a gun in his waistband. Despite repeated demands, he refused to leave. Police arrived and found him intoxicated and uncooperative. As officers tried to detain him, he allegedly became aggressive, injuring one officer.

He was arrested and later released under conditions including a firearms ban, remaining in California, and attending three weekly alcohol counseling sessions.

District Attorney Nathan Hochman called Hodgson’s alleged actions “deeply troubling,” adding, “No one is above the law.”

Hodgson is due back in court on July 17. He faces up to seven years in prison if convicted.

Young patients at @millerchildrens Miller Children

Young patients at @millerchildrens Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital enjoyed a surprise visit from the Los Angeles Ghostbusters, complete with the Ectomobile and themed hospital gowns. Made possible by Starlight Children’s Foundation, the visit brought joy, imagination, and empowerment—turning an ordinary day into a heroic ghostbusting adventure for kids in care.

Sunset in Long Beach #longbeach

Sunset in Long Beach #longbeach

Long Beach Police Arrest Homeless Man in Sexual As

Long Beach Police Arrest Homeless Man in Sexual Assault, Seek Additional Victims

Detectives with the Long Beach Police Department’s Sex Crimes Detail have arrested a suspect in connection with a violent sexual assault that occurred early Tuesday morning, and they believe there may be additional victims.

The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Alvin Marbra, who is experiencing homelessness, was taken into custody on the afternoon of July 1, 2025. Authorities believe he is responsible for a brutal attack that took place just after 2:30 a.m. near Alamitos Avenue and 4th Street.

According to investigators, a female adult victim was walking in the area when Marbra allegedly approached her, physically assaulted her until she lost consciousness, and then sexually assaulted her.

Using nearby security camera footage, detectives were able to track Marbra’s movements. He was located later that day around 12:45 p.m. near 4th Street and Cherry Avenue and was arrested without incident. He was booked into the Long Beach City Jail on multiple felony charges, including rape, assault with intent to rape, and assault with a deadly weapon. His bail was set at $100,000.

“This alarming criminal act is deeply concerning, and the response of our officers and detectives underscores LBPD’s commitment to identifying and arresting individuals responsible for harming others,” said Long Beach Police Chief Wally Hebeish. “The work of the responding officers and handling detectives, coupled with our strategic use of technology and security video, allowed us to swiftly identify and arrest the suspect believed to be responsible for this heinous sexual assault.”

Investigators are now urging anyone who may have been victimized by Marbra or has information about similar incidents to come forward. They believe there may be additional unreported cases and are asking potential victims to contact the Sex Crimes Detail at (562) 570-7368.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Minibike Riders Clash with Long Beach Police in Vi

Minibike Riders Clash with Long Beach Police in Viral Street Encounter

A tense standoff between a Long Beach police officer and a group of minibike riders drew viral attention after a video of the incident spread online. The confrontation occurred around 2:10 p.m. Sunday, at Broadway and Hermosa Ave. when police stopped a rider operating a pocket bike illegally on a public street.

The video shows the officer handcuffing the rider while others on dirt bikes and minibikes circle him, yelling “let him go” and throwing bottles. The officer is seen drawing a taser and eventually uses pepper gel to disperse the crowd, according to LBPD spokesperson Eric Stachura. The detained rider was cited and released at the scene.

The incident highlights enforcement challenges as minibike groups, often traveling in packs, continue to disrupt traffic and concern residents. Although such vehicles are banned from public roads, LBPD says officers are instructed not to pursue riders due to safety risks.

East Division Commander Shaleana Benson said the department focuses on public safety over aggressive enforcement, advising officers not to target individual riders unless necessary. Citations and impounds are issued at officers’ discretion.

Street takeovers have become increasingly common in downtown and shoreline areas, prompting debate over how best to respond.

Long Beach Police to Conduct DUI Tomorrow June 26

Long Beach Police to Conduct DUI Tomorrow June 26

Long Beach, CA — On Thursday, June 26, 2025, the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) will be conducting a Driving Under the Influence (DUI)/Driver License (CDL) checkpoint in the East Division area. The checkpoint will operate from 6:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. as part of the department’s continued efforts to promote road safety.

Checkpoint locations are selected based on data identifying areas with a high frequency of impaired driving-related crashes. According to the LBPD, the primary goal of these operations is to reduce the number of impaired drivers on the road and enhance public safety.

“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” said Commander Jeremy Boshnack. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improve traffic safety.”

The department also reminds the public that impairment goes beyond alcohol. Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and marijuana—both medicinal and recreational—can all impair a driver’s ability. While marijuana use may be legal, driving under its influence remains against the law.

First-time DUI offenders can face up to $13,500 in fines and penalties, in addition to a suspended driver’s license.

This DUI/CDL checkpoint is made possible through funding from the California Office of Traffic Safety, provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

LBPD encourages all motorists to drive responsibly and help keep Long Beach roads safe.

Long Beach’s Popular Wibit Water Playgrounds Now

Long Beach’s Popular Wibit Water Playgrounds Now Open for Summer Fun

Summer fun is officially on in Long Beach! The City’s beloved inflatable “Wibit” aquatic playgrounds are now open at Alamitos Beach and Bay Shore Avenue free to the public and open daily through Sept. 1.

These floating obstacle courses are packed with bouncers, springboards, monkey bars, climbing domes and more perfect for all ages looking for splash-filled excitement. Long Beach Lifeguards are on duty daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. to help keep the fun safe.

Locations:
• Alamitos Beach (south of Ocean Blvd, east of Shoreline Dr)
• Bay Shore Avenue (5415 E Ocean Blvd, Alamitos Bay)

“The return of the Wibit aquatic playgrounds is something families across Long Beach look forward to every summer,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “These free, fun, and active amenities reflect our commitment to accessible recreation.”

Councilmembers Cindy Allen and Kristina Duggan also praised the reopening, calling the Wibits a “beloved summer tradition” and a “safe and engaging way” for people to enjoy the waterfront.

Safety reminders:
• All participants must pass a swim test
• Children under 9 must be with a parent or guardian
• Life jackets and flotation devices are not permitted on the equipment

The Wibits are free and open now, come climb, bounce, and cool off by the water.

For more information, call 562.570.3233 or visit the Wibit Aquatic Playgrounds webpage.

#LongBeachCA #WibitPlayground #BeachDays #LBSummer #FreeFamilyFun

Two People Shot Outside Wingstop in Long Beach; Po

Two People Shot Outside Wingstop in Long Beach; Police Investigating

Long Beach police are investigating a shooting that left two individuals seriously injured Tuesday afternoon outside a Wingstop restaurant.

The incident occurred around 3:00 p.m. in the parking lot located at the northeast corner of Long Beach Boulevard and 20th Street. Witnesses reported hearing between six and ten gunshots. Bystanders attempted to perform CPR on one of the victims who was found lying on the ground.

Paramedics from the Long Beach Fire Department arrived shortly afterward and transported the victim to a nearby trauma center.

The second victim, identified as a male juvenile, sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body. According to authorities, he self-transported to a hospital on his own, where he was listed in critical but stable condition.

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting is ongoing.

Thousands Gather at Bixby Park in National ‘No K

Thousands Gather at Bixby Park in National ‘No King’ Protest Against Trump Administration

Long Beach, CA — June 14, 2025

Thousands of demonstrators gathered at Bixby Park in Long Beach on Saturday as part of a national day of protest dubbed the “No King” movement a sweeping demonstration aimed at voicing opposition to the administration of President Donald Trump.

The event in Long Beach was one of dozens held across the country, with protesters denouncing what they describe as authoritarian overreach and anti-democratic policies tied to Trump’s time in office and his ongoing influence in American politics.

Waving signs that read “No King in America,” “Democracy Not Dictatorship,” and “Power to the People,” the crowd chanted slogans. Organizers emphasized that the protest was not only about Trump himself, but about what they view as a broader threat to democratic norms and civil liberties.

“This is about standing up for the values our country was founded on,” said Alicia Martinez, one of the event’s coordinators. “No one not a president, not a billionaire, not anyone is above the Constitution.”

The peaceful demonstration began around 9:00 A.M., drawing a diverse group of attendees from across Southern California. Many participants expressed concern about the president’s recent rhetoric and executive orders.

“We’re here because silence is complicity,” said James Lang, a Long Beach resident. “This protest is a message that we won’t go backward.”

The “No King” movement, first launched by grassroots activists earlier this year, has gained traction on social media and among civic groups alarmed by what they call a “creeping erosion” of democratic institutions.

The Long Beach Police Department reported no major incidents and said the protest remained orderly so far as of noon.

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