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).
Dillon, SC — Authorities have launched an investigation following the discovery of a deceased woman in a vehicle parked at the Ready Mart in Dillon early Tuesday morning.
Dillon County Coroner Donnie Grimsley has identified the woman as Jennifer Ward.
Officials are currently working to determine the circumstances surrounding her death.
An autopsy is being conducted to establish the exact cause and manner of death, with results expected to be released later this week, according to Grimsley.
At this time, no further details regarding the incident have been provided.
Law enforcement officials are continuing their investigation and urge anyone with information related to the case to come forward.
Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.