Crime
Two Oregon Residents Arrested for Impersonating Firefighters in Palisades Fire Incident
On Saturday, January 18, 2025, investigators from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Major Crimes Bureau were alerted to the arrest of two individuals suspected of impersonating firefighters within the Palisades Fire evacuation zone.
The incident was initiated when a Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) patrol unit, accompanied by fire personnel, observed a suspicious fire truck operating within the affected area.
The vehicle’s appearance and markings raised concerns about its legitimacy. Upon reporting their observations, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to investigate further.
The deputies located and intercepted the fire truck as it attempted to enter a restricted evacuation zone.
Upon approaching the vehicle, deputies found two occupants dressed in full firefighter turnout gear.
The individuals identified themselves as members of the “Roaring River Fire Department” based in Oregon. However, subsequent inquiries revealed that no such fire department existed, and the fire truck in their possession had been purchased at an auction.
Further examination of their attire revealed they were wearing CAL-Fire branded t-shirts beneath their turnout gear, along with helmets and radios, which added to the appearance of authenticity.
During the investigation, the suspects, identified as Dustin Nehl, 31, and Jennifer Nehl, 44, admitted to entering the evacuation zone on the previous day, Friday, January 17, 2025.
As a result, both individuals were arrested for impersonating a firefighter and unlawfully entering a designated evacuation zone. The fire truck was subsequently impounded as evidence.
Authorities further disclosed that Dustin Nehl has a prior criminal history in Oregon, including charges related to criminal mischief and arson. However, neither suspect has any known criminal record in the state of California.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that the case will be presented to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for formal filing consideration on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
Photographs of the seized vehicle and firefighting equipment have been attached to aid in the ongoing investigation.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department encourages anyone with information related to this case to contact the Major Crimes Bureau at (562) 946-7893. Individuals wishing to remain anonymous can provide information through “L.A. Crime Stoppers” by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
BROOKLYN PARK, MN – Newly released video footage captures the moment a small aircraft crashed into a home in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, on Saturday afternoon.
Authorities have yet to confirm the number of individuals on board or the extent of any injuries.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has verified that the aircraft went down near Noble Parkway and 109th Avenue North, sparking a fire upon impact.
Witnesses in the area reported seeing flames engulfing a portion of the house as emergency responders rushed to the scene.
Fire crews have since extinguished the blaze, and while the home remains standing, officials noted that the roof was completely torn off due to the crash.
According to preliminary reports, the aircraft departed from Des Moines International Airport in Iowa and was en route to Anoka County–Blaine Airport in Minneapolis before it went down.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and details regarding the plane’s occupants have yet to be released.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz acknowledged the incident, stating that his administration is closely monitoring developments.
“My team is in touch with local officials on the scene in Brooklyn Park, and we are monitoring the situation closely,” Walz wrote on X. “Grateful to the first responders answering the call.”
Dramatic video from the crash site shows thick smoke billowing from the residence as firefighters work to contain the flames.
Emergency medical personnel were also seen on-site, though no official statements have been made regarding casualties or survivors.
Authorities are expected to release further updates as the investigation progresses.