In a significant move for the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD), Mayor Karen Bass has appointed Deputy Chief Jaime Moore as the new head of the fire department. Jaime Moore, who began his career with the LAFD in 1995, has been entrusted to lead the department into the future, which includes preparations for upcoming world-scale events such as the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as improving the department's response to emergencies and 911 calls.
As reported by CBS News Los Angeles, Mayor Bass expressed confidence in Moore's abilities, stating, "Chief Moore is a proven and admired firefighter. Our work together will focus on reforming the LAFD to better prepare Los Angeles for major emergencies and the upcoming major events coming to our region." Her decision comes after the tumultuous departure of former Chief Kristin Crowley, which was related to the department's controversial handling of the Palisades Fire earlier in the year.
The choice to appoint Moore has already garnered support from the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, who are looking forward to cooperating with him. Moore's leadership has been recognized by the union, a sentiment echoed in the official statement released by Mayor Bass's office, where the commitment to urgently advance an agenda of reform and preparation for the city's significant upcoming events was highlighted.
Moore, who has served in various executive roles within the LAFD including the Arson and Counter Terrorism Section and who professionalized the department's data management system FireStat LA, has a track record that speaks to his readiness for this role, "I am humbled by the trust that Mayor Bass is placing in me with this appointment," Moore told Mayor Bass's office. "I love this city – it's my hometown, and my fellow firefighters are my family." If the City Council confirms Moore’s nomination, he will become the second Latino Chief and the first Spanish-speaking fire chief to lead the department.
Moore succeeds Interim Chief Ronnie Villanueva, who admirably stepped out of retirement to navigate the department through a challenging period. Both Moore and Villanueva were part of the response team to last year's devastating wildfires, with Villanueva receiving plaudits from Mayor Bass for his service, "When our fire department and city were facing turmoil amidst one of the worst natural disasters in L.A. 's history, Chief Ronnie Villanueva answered the call," Mayor Bass stated, reflecting on Villanueva’s dedication during a crisis period for the city.
