The wildfires in Los Angeles continue to be a disaster after nearly two weeks of spreading, and emergency resources from other states, including Mexico, are being mobilized to help. In the midst of this crisis, two individuals were arrested on Saturday for attempting to enter a restricted area in Pacific Palisades, one of the most affected areas by the fire. These individuals were Dustin Nehl and Jennifer Nehl, who arrived at the scene in a red fire truck, purchased at an auction. Although they wore full uniforms and claimed to be part of a fake fire department, their attempt to pose as firefighters did not succeed.
The Fake Identity
Dustin and Jennifer Nehl identified themselves as members of the “Roaring River Fire Department,” an entity that does not exist. In addition to the helmets and radios they carried, they wore Cal Fire t-shirts, the California state fire agency. This detail immediately raised suspicions with the officers. Upon verifying their story, they discovered that the “Roaring River Fire Department” was completely fake.
Why Did They Try to Pose as Firefighters?
Once the officers uncovered the lie, they arrested both individuals for entering an evacuation area without permission and for impersonating firefighters. The truck was seized as part of the investigation.
It was revealed that Dustin Nehl has a criminal record in Oregon related to property damage and arson, although it is unclear if these incidents are connected to the current fires in California. The investigation is ongoing to determine if the couple traveled from Oregon with the intent to infiltrate the affected area.
Reactions from People Who Know the Arrested
After the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department posted the news of the arrest, a woman named Hailey Bear, who claimed to have known “Jenni” Nehl for a long time, asked people not to start rumors. Bear suggested that perhaps the couple did not have bad intentions but were trying to “feel important” or “become heroes” after a recent personal tragedy.
The Fire Is Still Active
Meanwhile, the flames in Los Angeles County remain a challenge for firefighters. The Palisades fire is now 59% contained after more than two weeks of constant fighting. In other areas, such as the Eaton fire, 87% of the fire has been controlled, allowing some evacuated residents to return to their homes.
Authorities continue to investigate any attempts to impersonate firefighters and other possible crimes related to the fires. They have also increased surveillance to prevent further crimes during this crisis.
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