Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Chief Jaime Moore announced he will not investigate who altered the after-action report on the Palisades fire, which occurred on January 7, 2025, and resulted in 12 fatalities and the destruction of thousands of homes.
Moore, who became chief in November, acknowledged that the report was edited to soften criticism of LAFD leadership but emphasized a forward-looking approach instead of assigning blame. He stated that such edits would not occur under his leadership.
The report’s author, Battalion Chief Kenneth Cook, refused to endorse the final version, citing substantial deletions that altered his findings. The report was sent to then-interim Fire Chief Ronnie Villanueva and Mayor Karen Bass’ office for revisions, although Bass denied requesting changes. Moore’s admission came after a Los Angeles Times investigation revealed that the report had been altered to protect department leadership from scrutiny.
Moore admitted that earlier drafts were more candid, criticizing staffing decisions and command choices. These drafts were revised before publication, as after-action reports are typically internal documents. Moore emphasized that the department has since adjusted its tactics and decision-making protocols for wildland fires, including expanded use of drones and revised deployment procedures during red flag conditions.
The changes in the report included altering language that criticized deployment decisions ahead of extreme wind conditions. Despite the controversy, Moore expressed confidence in the department’s improved preparedness and commitment to rebuilding trust within the community.
Moore also defended the command decisions made during the earlier Lachman fire, which reignited into the Palisades fire. He stated that the department believed the fire was fully extinguished, and the subsequent eruption was due to extreme weather conditions.
Chief Moore joined John Kobylt yesterday, listen to that interview below.
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