LIGHTS OUT: Copper Wire Theft Suspect Arrested in Santa Monic

Santa Monica, CA – Santa Monica Police arrested a man early Wednesday morning in connection with the theft of more than 300 pounds of copper wire from underground electrical pull boxes along Colorado Avenue.

Officers encountered Juan Carlos Gonzalez Alvarado, 43, near the 1500 block of Colorado Avenue at approximately 1:30 a.m. on February 5, pushing a city-owned trash container filled with the stolen material. Further investigation linked the loose wire to recent thefts at nine locations in the area.

Gonzalez Alvarado was booked on multiple charges, including grand theft, vandalism, possession of burglar tools, and possession of a controlled substance.

Santa Monica maintains a network of over 6,000 streetlights, which city officials say are crucial for public safety. The theft of copper wiring not only leads to costly repairs but also leaves streets, bike lanes, and sidewalks in darkness, creating potential hazards for residents and motorists.

Authorities urge anyone with information about this incident to contact Detective Michael Castruita at michael.castruita@santamonica.gov, Sergeant Cooney at shaun.cooney@santamonica.gov, or the SMPD Watch Commander at (310) 458-8427.

BURN ZONE HAZARDS: EPA Neutralizes Explosive Lithium Batteries from Palisades Fire

On Friday, February 7, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continued its extensive recovery operations in the aftermath of the Palisades Fire, focusing on the safe handling and disposal of hazardous lithium-ion batteries. Chris Myers, Federal On-Scene Coordinator at the EPA and a co-chair of the agency’s National Lithium-Ion Battery Emergency Response Task Force, provided an overview of the work being conducted at the Topanga Lithium Battery Processing Site. The EPA's Lithium Battery Response Task Force had collected batteries from fire-damaged electric vehicles and residential energy storage systems throughout the burn zones in Pacific Palisades. These batteries, transported to the Topanga site in secure 55-gallon drums, underwent a critical safety and processing protocol to mitigate their hazardous potential. At the site, hazmat personnel in white protective suits, respirators, gloves, and hard hats conducted meticulous processing operations. Myers explained the multi-step process: in the field, unstable batteries were removed from vehicles and energy systems and placed into drums for safe transport. Once at the processing site, damaged batteries that had undergone thermal runaway were either crushed to eliminate any chance of further reaction or submerged in an electrolytic brine solution—saltwater—to safely discharge any remaining energy. Crushing rendered the batteries mechanically incapable of causing thermal runaway or explosions. “This operation ensures that these highly volatile batteries are stabilized and no longer pose a safety risk,” Myers said. “By safely discharging and mechanically neutralizing these batteries, we significantly reduce the potential for dangerous incidents.” The EPA’s efforts are part of the broader hazardous materials cleanup mission initiated following the catastrophic Palisades Fire. The fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, consumed more than 23,000 acres and destroyed over 12,000 structures, displacing approximately 150,000 residents in Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and the San Fernando Valley. Despite challenges posed by high winds that grounded aerial firefighting efforts, the fire was contained following significant rainfall, which also brought concerns about mudslides and debris flow in the affected areas. The EPA’s ongoing work, alongside other government agencies and relief organizations, remains vital in ensuring the safe and efficient rebuilding of communities impacted by the disaster. By addressing hazardous materials like lithium-ion batteries, the agency is playing a crucial role in safeguarding public and environmental health during the recovery process.

STUDENTS WALK OUT: Santa Monica High Students Protest Trump Immigration Policies

SANTA MONICA—Hundreds of Santa Monica High School students staged a walkout on Thursday, February 6, 2025, marching to City Hall in protest of President Donald Trump’s immigration policies. The demonstration was part of a larger movement of student-led walkouts across Southern California, now in its fifth consecutive day.

At noon, students poured through the school gates, carrying signs and chanting in opposition to deportations and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions. The protest was organized in response to concerns over family separations, migrant detentions, and policies that activists say disproportionately target marginalized communities.

Social media played a key role in mobilizing students, with posts encouraging participation in both off-campus marches and on-campus demonstrations. Some students occupied school hallways in a show of solidarity, while others joined the march through Santa Monica streets.

At City Hall, student speakers took turns addressing the crowd, amplifying their demands for justice.

“Seeking safety is a human right—no human being is illegal!” one protester declared to a chorus of cheers.

Another student emphasized the broader implications of the administration’s policies: “They are gutting our education, erasing our history, and stripping away our rights. If we don’t act now, what future will be left for us?”

Protesters also linked immigration policies to wider social issues, including LGBTQ+ rights, climate change, and economic inequality.

“Democracy is not set in stone—it’s a flame passed down from generation to generation. And we will not let that flame go out,” a student speaker urged.

The demonstration joined a wave of similar protests in Los Angeles, Van Nuys, and other cities, as young people continue to mobilize against policies they describe as “a system built on fear, racism, and power.”

The Santa Monica walkout is one of many unfolding across the nation, underscoring a growing movement of youth activism demanding systemic change.

Crews Work in Rain to Mitigate Flooding and Mudslide Risks in Pacific Palisades After Fire

On Wednesday, February 5, 2025, crews from the California Conservation Corps (CCC) and the Sequoia Community Corps (SCC) worked in the rain installing sandbags, silt socks, and straw wattles as part of ongoing efforts to protect local watersheds following the Palisades Fire. Their work is essential in preventing hazardous contaminants from burned materials from entering the ocean and local water systems, especially with the increased risk of runoff due to rain. The CCC has deployed 26 teams across the state in collaboration with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). Their focus remains on mitigating environmental damage and preventing erosion. Given the proximity of fire-damaged properties to the coastline, their work is vital in safeguarding both environmental and public health. The Sequoia Community Corps (SCC) continues to play a key role in the recovery, offering vocational training in trades such as weatherization, urban forestry, conservation education, and recycling. For more than 34 years, SCC has provided over 4,000 young adults with job training and educational opportunities while supporting communities through disaster response efforts. The recent rainfall has heightened concerns over potential flooding and mudslides from the fire-scorched hillsides. With rain expected to continue, emergency crews are closely monitoring conditions to prevent further damage. The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, spread rapidly due to Santa Ana winds and drought conditions. The wildfire scorched more than 23,000 acres, destroyed over 12,000 structures, and displaced 150,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and the San Fernando Valley. The fire claimed at least five lives and left widespread devastation. High winds hindered containment efforts, allowing the flames to spread unchecked. While recent rainfall has helped extinguish lingering fire remnants, it has also raised new concerns about mudslides and debris flow. With evacuation orders lifted on January 27, recovery efforts are now focused on debris removal, utility restoration, and hazardous material disposal. Relief organizations, faith-based groups, and government agencies continue to play a crucial role in rebuilding and ensuring the safety of affected communities.

𝗙𝗥𝗢𝗠 𝗔𝗦𝗛𝗘𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝗛𝗢𝗣𝗘:: Family Searches for Memories in Fire-Ravaged Palisades Home

On Saturday, February 1, 2025, a family dressed in white hazmat suits carefully sifted through the remains of their home on Via de la Paz in Pacific Palisades, searching for any personal belongings that may have survived the devastation. The fire had completely consumed their property, leaving behind only ashes and debris. The Palisades Fire, which erupted on January 7, 2025, quickly escalated into a disaster driven by powerful Santa Ana winds and prolonged drought conditions. The wildfire burned through more than 23,000 acres, reducing over 12,000 structures to ash and forcing the evacuation of approximately 150,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and parts of the San Fernando Valley. At least five lives were lost, and many others suffered injuries. Efforts to contain the inferno were severely hindered by relentless winds, which grounded aerial firefighting operations and further fueled the flames. Though recent rainfall helped extinguish the fire, it also introduced new dangers, including mudslides and debris flow in the already devastated landscape. By January 27, authorities lifted evacuation orders, marking a significant step forward in the community’s recovery. As rebuilding efforts gain momentum, scenes like this one on Via de la Paz serve as a sobering reminder of the fire's widespread destruction. Utility crews and disaster recovery teams continue working tirelessly to restore essential services and clear debris, while families like this one take the first difficult steps toward rebuilding their homes and lives.

Billy Graham Rapid Response Team Provides Spiritual Support in Pacific Palisades After Devastating Fire

Pacific Palisades, February 1, 2025: The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (BG-RRT) has arrived in Pacific Palisades to offer prayers and emotional support to the community in the aftermath of the deadly Palisades Fire. Crisis-trained chaplains are on-site, providing spiritual care to residents coping with the destruction left by the wildfire.

Chaplain Randy Cole, a team leader coordinator with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, emphasized the role of the chaplains as a "ministry of presence," offering emotional and spiritual care in the wake of disaster. The team has been on the ground since the second day of the fires and plans to maintain a continued presence in the area. Chaplain Cole also highlighted their partnership with Samaritan's Purse, one of only two organizations authorized to assist in recovery efforts. Samaritan's Purse is providing free assistance to homeowners, helping them recover personal items regardless of insurance status or financial means.

During their time in Pacific Palisades, Chaplain Cole prayed for Santa Monica Closeup photojournalist Fabian Lewkowicz, asking for protection, wisdom, and discernment in his work documenting the disaster. He also lifted up firefighters at Station 69 and all emergency personnel involved in the recovery process, praying for their safety and the difficult decisions they must make.

The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team specializes in deploying chaplains to areas affected by both man-made and natural disasters. Originally formed after the 9/11 attacks, the team has since responded to crises across the country, offering comfort and prayer to victims, first responders, and local faith leaders. As forecasts predict increased winds in California, chaplains remain in the Los Angeles area, continuing their outreach to those struggling with loss and uncertainty.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, in Los Angeles' Pacific Palisades, quickly escalated into a catastrophic event fueled by fierce Santa Ana winds and extended drought conditions. The wildfire consumed more than 23,000 acres, reduced over 12,000 structures to ash, and forced the evacuation of approximately 150,000 residents from Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and sections of the San Fernando Valley. The fire claimed at least five lives and left many others injured. Firefighting efforts were hindered by powerful winds that grounded aerial support, allowing the flames to spread rapidly.

Although recent rainfall has helped contain the fire, it has also introduced new hazards, including mudslides and debris flow in the burned areas. By January 27, evacuation orders were lifted, marking a significant shift toward recovery. Efforts are now focused on debris removal, utility restoration, and providing emotional and spiritual support for those affected. The Billy Graham Rapid Response Team remains committed to offering compassion and guidance as the community begins the long process of healing and rebuilding.

𝗛𝗘𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗘𝗡𝗖𝗘: A Family's Search for Memories After the Palisades Fire

On Saturday, February 1, 2025, a family clad in white hazmat suits carefully searched through the remains of their home on Galloway Street in Pacific Palisades, hoping to salvage personal items from the rubble. The family, who had lived in the house for over 20 years, returned to the site for the first time since the devastating Palisades Fire destroyed their property, leaving only ashes and debris in its wake. The family intends to rebuild their home.

The Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025, quickly escalated into a catastrophic event fueled by fierce Santa Ana winds and extended drought conditions. The wildfire ravaged more than 23,000 acres, reduced over 12,000 structures to ash, and forced the evacuation of approximately 150,000 residents across Pacific Palisades, Malibu, and sections of the San Fernando Valley. The fire claimed at least five lives and left many others injured.

Efforts to contain the blaze faced significant challenges due to strong winds that grounded aerial firefighting support and further spread the flames. While recent rainfall helped extinguish the fire, it also introduced new risks, including mudslides and debris flow in the already devastated areas. By January 27, evacuation orders were lifted, marking a crucial turning point in the recovery process.

As rebuilding efforts begin, scenes like this one on Galloway Street are a stark reminder of the fire's profound impact on the community. Utility crews and disaster recovery teams continue working tirelessly to restore essential services and clear debris, while residents like this family begin the painstaking process of piecing their lives back together.