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Day: February 19, 2026

  • Home
  • 2026
  • February
  • 19
Posted inLocal News

Two Fatal Traffic Collisions Tuesday in Long Beach

LONG BEACH, Calif. — Collision Investigation Detail detectives are investigating two separate fatal traffic collisions that occurred Tuesday, Feb. 17, resulting in the deaths of two male victims, authorities said.…
Posted by LBLN February 19, 2026
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Mayoral Candidate Raises “Ghost Tenant” Concerns i Mayoral Candidate Raises “Ghost Tenant” Concerns in Long Beach Homeless Shelters In Long Beach, the homelessness crisis faces intensified scrutiny after fraud allegations, the termination of a major contract, and a city audit of roughly $70 million in homeless services funding since 2020. City officials fired First to Serve, the nonprofit that operated 423 of the city’s 500 shelter beds and received $13–14 million annually for shelter operations, rapid rehousing, and prevention programs. The audit, launched in 2023 by City Auditor Laura Doud, raised serious concerns about billing practices, documentation, and whether services were fully delivered. Mayor Rex Richardson declined to discuss potential fraud, stating, “I can’t get into the investigation.” He confirmed the termination was based on audit findings. The controversy gained further attention when mayoral candidate Chris Sweeney @sweeney4lbmayor went to the location and pointed out the existence of “ghost tenants” within the system, saying shelters were reporting higher occupancy than what was actually observed. In a social media video and interview conducted at the Luxury Inn on Long Beach Boulevard, Sweeney pointed to a nearby shelter where only 12 of 78 rooms appeared to be in use, questioning how public funds were being allocated. City data indicates other shelters operated by First to Serve had occupancy rates ranging from 78% to 88%, though some units were unavailable due to ongoing construction. Officials have emphasized that regular walkthroughs, inventory checks, and coordination meetings were conducted during the transition to ensure accountability of resources and client records. Still, the allegations have fueled broader concerns among residents and critics, many of whom are questioning whether shelters have been underused and whether taxpayer dollars have been properly managed. With audits historically conducted infrequently, some argue the situation highlights systemic issues in oversight and accountability. For many in Long Beach, the quality of life continues to decline with how the city is operating. Learn more about this latest and watch Chris Sweeney’s video on our website.
Man Stabbed at Long Beach Metro Train Station, Hos Man Stabbed at Long Beach Metro Train Station, Hospitalized A man was hospitalized after a stabbing at a Metro station in Long Beach early Wednesday morning, according to police. Officers with the Long Beach Police Department responded around 5 a.m. to the Pacific Metro station near Pacific Avenue and 5th Street. Upon arrival, they located a man suffering from stab wounds to his upper body. Paramedics transported the victim to a local hospital. His condition has not been disclosed. Investigators have not yet determined what led up to the stabbing, and no arrests have been made as the investigation remains ongoing. In response to the incident, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority issued an alert advising riders that bus shuttles are temporarily replacing train service between the Pacific and Anaheim stations due to police activity.
Thousands Rally at Bixby Park for “No Kings” Prote Thousands Rally at Bixby Park for “No Kings” Protest in Long Beach LONG BEACH, Calif. — Thousands of demonstrators gathered Saturday, March 28, at Bixby Park along Ocean Boulevard in Long Beach as part of the nationwide “No Kings” day of protest. The local rally, held near the Bixby Park Annex at Ocean Boulevard and Junipero Avenue, drew large crowds carrying signs, chanting, and lining the sidewalks in a peaceful demonstration. Organizers said the event was part of a coordinated effort taking place across the country, with thousands of similar protests planned in all 50 states.  The “No Kings” movement, which began in 2025, opposes policies tied to the Trump administration, including immigration enforcement actions and recent military involvement overseas.  Saturday’s demonstrations are believed to be among the largest yet, with millions of people expected to participate nationwide in more than 3,000 events.  In Long Beach, the protest remained largely peaceful, with participants emphasizing unity, democracy, and community engagement as they gathered throughout the afternoon.
Thousands Rally at Bixby Park for “No Kings” Prote Thousands Rally at Bixby Park for “No Kings” Protest in Long Beach
Teen Hospitalized After Shooting in Long Beach; In Teen Hospitalized After Shooting in Long Beach; Investigation Ongoing Long Beach police are investigating a shooting that left a teenage boy wounded early Friday morning. Officers were first dispatched at approximately 12:01 a.m. on March 27, 2026, to the 5800 block of Linden Avenue following reports of gunfire. After canvassing the area, officers were unable to locate any evidence of a shooting at that time. Roughly 50 minutes later, at about 12:50 a.m., officers responded to a local hospital where a teenage male arrived with gunshot wounds to his upper body. The victim, who was listed in stable condition, had transported himself to the hospital. During the investigation, officers determined the two incidents were connected and subsequently located a crime scene in the 5900 block of Atlantic Avenue. Authorities have not released any suspect information, and the motive and circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Long Beach Police Department.
Woman Killed in Crosswalk Crash at 4th Street and Woman Killed in Crosswalk Crash at 4th Street and Ximeno Avenue Collision Investigation detectives are investigating a fatal traffic collision that claimed the life of a woman Tuesday afternoon, March 24, 2026, in Long Beach. At approximately 12:57 p.m., officers responded to the intersection of 4th Street and Ximeno Avenue regarding a reported injury traffic collision. Upon arrival, officers found Long Beach Fire Department personnel providing medical aid to a female adult pedestrian in the roadway. Despite lifesaving efforts, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. According to preliminary findings, the driver of a 2003 Toyota 4Runner was traveling eastbound on 4th Street when she made a left turn onto Ximeno Avenue and struck the pedestrian, who was in a marked crosswalk. The driver, identified as a 53-year-old Long Beach resident, remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. Authorities say that, at this time, speed, impaired driving, and distracted driving are not believed to have contributed to the collision. The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of next of kin by the Los Angeles County Department of the Medical Examiner. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision is urged to contact Long Beach Police Department Collision Investigation Detail Detective Joseph Johnson at (562) 570-7355.
Motorcyclist Killed in Crash with Bicyclist on Lon Motorcyclist Killed in Crash with Bicyclist on Long Beach River Trail LONG BEACH, Calif. — A motorcyclist has died following a collision with a bicyclist on the San Gabriel River Trail Friday evening, according to the Long Beach Police Department. The crash occurred around 8:12 p.m. on March 20, 2026, along the San Gabriel River Trail just south of the 405 Freeway. Officers responded to reports of an injury collision involving a motorcycle and a bicycle. When authorities arrived, both a male adult motorcyclist and a male adult bicyclist were receiving medical aid from bystanders. Personnel from the Long Beach Fire Department transported both individuals to a local hospital in critical condition. The motorcyclist later died from his injuries. Preliminary findings indicate the motorcyclist was traveling southbound on the trail when he collided head-on with a bicyclist heading in the opposite direction. Both were ejected upon impact and sustained severe injuries. Witnesses told investigators the motorcyclist was traveling at a high rate of speed and was not wearing a helmet or using lights at the time of the crash. Authorities said impaired or distracted driving are not believed to be factors. The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending notification by the Los Angeles County Department of the Medical Examiner. The bicyclist’s current condition has not been released. Anyone with information is urged to contact Collision Investigation Detective Joseph Johnson at 562-570-7355.
MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center Offers Expa MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center Offers Expanded Care for Back and Neck Pain More than 50 million people in the United States experience back or neck pain, a condition that can make everyday activities such as walking, shopping, or working difficult. To help address the growing need for treatment, the MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center is highlighting services offered through its Back & Neck Health Center. The center provides comprehensive care for patients suffering from spine-related pain, offering both non-surgical and surgical treatment options tailored to individual needs. Care teams include rehabilitation medicine physicians, spine surgeons, physical therapists, pain medicine specialists, and patient navigators who work together to guide patients from consultation through recovery. Treatment options range from conservative approaches such as physical therapy, medications, ergonomic education, and home exercise programs to interventional spine care and steroid treatments. For patients who need advanced care, minimally invasive and complex spine surgeries are also available. The program is designed for adults, particularly those between 55 and 79 years old experiencing chronic or acute back, neck, or joint pain. It also serves patients who have not found relief through other treatments, those seeking second opinions, and individuals referred through workers’ compensation or employers. Patients are supported by a dedicated nurse navigator who coordinates care throughout the treatment process. Services include in-person and virtual consultations, on-site imaging and diagnostics, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and educational resources to help patients manage their condition. Health officials say the goal of the program is to provide a clear path to recovery so patients can return to daily activities with less pain and improved mobility. More info on our website link in bio
55-Year-Old Man Arrested After Crash That Killed 2 55-Year-Old Man Arrested After Crash That Killed 20-Month-Old Girl LONG BEACH, Calif. — Detectives with the Long Beach Police Department are investigating a fatal traffic collision that claimed the life of a 20-month-old girl Monday morning. On March 2, 2026, at approximately 11:27 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 400 block of Maine Avenue regarding an injury collision involving a vehicle and multiple pedestrians. When officers arrived, they located three pedestrians who had been struck. Police immediately began life-saving measures on the toddler before she was transported to a local hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries. Personnel from the Long Beach Fire Department transported two additional victims a 45-year-old woman and a 12-year-old girl to a hospital in stable condition. According to preliminary findings, a 2013 Chevy Captiva was making a turning movement when it suddenly reversed at a high rate of speed, leaving the roadway and driving onto the sidewalk, where it struck the three pedestrians. The driver remained at the scene and was arrested. Authorities identified him as 55-year-old Lamont Ivan Russell of Long Beach. He was booked at the Long Beach City Jail on suspicion of felony vehicular manslaughter, felony DUI, and misdemeanor battery. Bail was set at $335,000. Investigators believe speed, distraction, and impaired driving were contributing factors in the crash. The identity of the toddler is being withheld pending notification of next of kin by the Los Angeles County Department of the Medical Examiner. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision is urged to contact LBPD Collision Investigation Detail Detective Dougherty at (562) 570-7355.
Crash near Atlantic and Market just after 8 a.m. i Crash near Atlantic and Market just after 8 a.m. involved eight vehicles, including an RV. Witnesses say the RV struck one car, triggering a chain-reaction collision. Despite the damage and heavy traffic delays, no major injuries were reported. Streets are closed on Market from Atlantic to Elm.
Toddler Killed, Two Injured After SUV Strikes Pede Toddler Killed, Two Injured After SUV Strikes Pedestrians in Long Beach A toddler was killed and two others were hospitalized after a vehicle struck multiple pedestrians Monday morning in Long Beach, authorities said. The crash occurred around 11:30 a.m. near 440 Maine Ave., just north of Fourth Street and about a block from Cesar E. Chavez Park. Officers with the Long Beach Police Department responded to reports of a single-vehicle collision involving several pedestrians. When officers arrived, they found three victims — a female adult, a female child and a female toddler — suffering from multiple injuries, according to LBPD Lt. John Hotchkiss. Police said one of the responding officers transported the toddler to a hospital in a patrol car due to the severity of her injuries. Despite lifesaving efforts, she later died. A neighbor estimated the child was about 2 to 3 years old. The adult woman and the older child were transported by paramedics to local hospitals and are reported to be in stable condition. Preliminary information indicates the pedestrians were sitting on the stairs in front of an apartment building when a male driver attempted to reverse an SUV. The vehicle allegedly rolled over the curb and struck the victims. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. It is not yet known whether drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash. The investigation remains ongoing. Photo by Onscene.tv
Triple Shooting Near Downtown Long Beach Grand Ope Triple Shooting Near Downtown Long Beach Grand Opening Sends Three to Hospital LONG BEACH, Calif. — Three people were shot Sunday afternoon near Broadway and Pine Avenue in Downtown Long Beach, triggering a large police and fire response and disrupting a crowded grand opening event. At about 3:34 p.m. March 1, 2026, Long Beach Police Department and Long Beach Fire Department responded to reports of a shooting. Police said one victim was struck in the upper body and another in the lower body, with officers rendering aid until paramedics arrived. Two individuals were detained at the scene. Minutes later, authorities confirmed a third shooting victim. All three victims were transported to local hospitals; their conditions have not been released. The shooting occurred a few hours after the grand opening of Marathon Burger on Pine Avenue. The incident unfolded as Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson was posting a video of the ribbon cutting. Witnesses reported panic as gunfire erupted near the crowded event. One witness on scene said, “I’m in downtown Long Beach, where there is a strong police presence. Eyewitnesses say a verbal argument inside Marathon Burger, which just opened today, spilled into the street and became violent. We are currently hearing bystander reports of at least six shots fired. One victim has been transported to the hospital. There has been no official statement yet from the Long Beach Police Department.” UPDATE: The Long Beach Police Department let us know there was no officer-involved shooting. The previous statement was what a witness reported and was not confirmed. The opening drew large crowds and featured appearances by Snoop Dogg, Lauren London, and Slink Johnson, celebrating the brand’s expansion and the legacy of Nipsey Hussle. Authorities have not released suspect or motive information. The investigation remains ongoing as detectives secured the area for evidence collection and interviews. Photos by @msmimimasher
$80M Deficit Raises Tough Questions for Modica, Ri $80M Deficit Raises Tough Questions for Modica, Richardson at City Hall The City of Long Beach is projecting a budget deficit of up to $80 million by FY 2027, raising serious concerns about the city’s long-term financial stability. A year-end financial report shows Long Beach closed FY 2025 $40 million over budget, forcing officials to draw down reserves, including pandemic-era funds and money set aside for disaster response and public safety programs. The newly adopted $3.7 billion FY 26 budget is balanced largely with one-time funding and does not resolve the city’s structural deficit. Projections now show a cumulative shortfall of more than $60 million between FY 27–FY 31, with the FY 27 deficit alone jumping from a prior estimate of $39.3 million to as much as $80 million. Officials cite declining revenues, rising costs, reduced state and federal funding, payroll and benefit increases, infrastructure needs ahead of the 2028 Olympics, and a $14 million deficit in the Health Department. Of the city’s $3.7 billion budget, only about $750 million is General Fund money. City Manager Tom Modica said layoffs and major service cuts are unlikely in 2025–26, but warned reductions may be unavoidable in 2027 without long-term solutions. Mayor Rex Richardson cited broader economic uncertainty as a contributing factor. Councilmember Cindy Allen has called for a public financial briefing, saying residents deserve transparency as Long Beach faces the likelihood of deep service cuts, staffing reductions, and program eliminations starting in FY 27 if sustainable revenue solutions are not implemented. More on our website link in bio
People, Not Politics: Tara Riggi Talks Community a People, Not Politics: Tara Riggi Talks Community at @nonnamercato We talk with @tarariggi Tara Riggi at Nonna Mercato for a conversation focused on community, not politics. A lifelong resident of Long Beach, Riggi is running to represent the city’s 5th District with a platform centered on transparency, accountability, and putting community voices first. Riggi says her campaign is about restoring trust in local leadership and making sure everyday residents, not special interests, shape the future of the district. Tara Riggi says she’s running for Long Beach City Council District 5 because too many residents feel unheard and disconnected from decisions made at Long Beach City Hall. She points to issues like large-scale development proposals at Wardlow and Cerritos, and projects such as the Orange Avenue bike lane as examples where residents felt excluded from the process. Riggi says her campaign is about restoring trust through transparency, collaboration, and accountability, engaging neighborhoods early, listening to concerns, and ensuring decisions are made with the community, not for them.
Civilians Save Woman Hanging From 2nd-Story Window Civilians Save Woman Hanging From 2nd-Story Window in Long Beach Apartment Fire An early-morning apartment fire prompted a dramatic civilian rescue Tuesday at the Highland Hacienda Condominiums in the 3100 block of Atlantic Avenue. At approximately 9:24 a.m. on Feb. 25, 2026, Long Beach Fire Department crews responded to a two-story apartment building with heavy smoke and flames coming from a second-story unit at the Highland Hacienda complex. Engine 7 initiated fire attack, Truck 7 handled ventilation, and Battalion Chief 3 assumed incident command. Long Beach Police Department was requested for traffic and crowd control. Before firefighters made entry, nearby civilian workers rescued a woman in her 30s who was seen dangling from a second-story window, pulling her to safety. One patient was evaluated at the scene. No firefighter injuries were reported. The American Red Cross Los Angeles Region was requested to assist three displaced families. Notified by @streaming562
UPDATE: Speed and Impairment Under Investigation i UPDATE: Speed and Impairment Under Investigation in Quadruple-Fatal Long Beach Collision Collision Investigation detectives are investigating a fatal traffic collision that occurred in the area of East Spring Street and Lakewood Boulevard early Saturday morning, resulting in the deaths of two males and two females of unknown ages. At approximately 1:18 a.m., officers responded to reports of an injury traffic collision involving a vehicle and a concrete underpass tunnel. Personnel from the Long Beach Fire Department were already on scene, where they extinguished a fully involved vehicle fire. Fire personnel attempted to render aid to a female occupant who had been ejected from the vehicle; however, she succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Three additional occupants were located deceased inside the vehicle. Preliminary investigation indicates that a 2008 Honda Accord was traveling southbound on Lakewood Boulevard from Spring Street when it struck the center median curb, lost control, and crashed into the underpass center support wall. The vehicle subsequently became engulfed in flames. Investigators are currently examining speed and impairment as possible contributing factors in the collision. The identities of the deceased are being withheld pending positive identification and notification of next of kin by the Los Angeles County Department of the Medical Examiner. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or can help identify the driver is urged to contact Long Beach Police Department Collision Investigation Detail Detective Ashley Van Holland at (562) 570-7355. @countynewstv
4 People Killed in Fiery Overnight Crash Near Long 4 People Killed in Fiery Overnight Crash Near Long Beach Airport (Originally reported as five people we now confirmed it’s four people killed in the crash) Four people were killed in a single-vehicle crash early Saturday morning in Long Beach after a car slammed into a tunnel wall near the entrance and caught fire. The crash was reported around 1:20 a.m. at Lakewood Boulevard and East Spring Street, near the tunnel that goes under the Long Beach Airport. Video from the scene showed the silver sedan fully engulfed in flames as firefighters doused the fire. A witness who arrived shortly after the crash described a chaotic and devastating scene. Officials say a silver sedan struck the center support of the tunnel and became fully engulfed in flames. Crews from the Long Beach Fire Department responded, with Engine 17 extinguishing the fire and confirming multiple fatalities. Subsequent updates confirmed five occupants died at the scene. Long Beach Police Department shut down both northbound and southbound lanes of Lakewood Boulevard for several hours while emergency crews worked and investigators processed the scene. Closures extended between East Spring Street and Willow Street. The identities, ages, and genders of the victims have not been released. Authorities have not yet determined whether speed, impairment, or other factors contributed to the crash. Video by @countynewstv
Two Fatal Traffic Collisions Tuesday in Long Beach Two Fatal Traffic Collisions Tuesday in Long Beach LONG BEACH, Calif. — Collision Investigation Detail detectives are investigating two separate fatal traffic collisions that occurred Tuesday, Feb. 17, resulting in the deaths of two male victims, authorities said. The first collision occurred at Pacific Coast Highway and Maine Avenue, where investigators are examining the circumstances that led to the death of an adult male. A second fatal collision was reported at East 7th Street and St. Louis Avenue, where a male of unknown age was killed. Details surrounding both incidents remain limited. Police officials said formal news releases with additional information are forthcoming as the investigations continue. Anyone with information related to either collision is encouraged to contact local authorities.
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