Sworn Testimony Claims Lachman Fire Site Was Still Hot Before Palisades Blaze

Deposition alleges firefighters were ordered to leave despite visible hot spots at previous fire location.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 6:55am

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Deposition testimony from a veteran Los Angeles firefighter indicates the Lachman Fire site was still actively smoldering when crews were ordered to leave, days before embers allegedly reignited and contributed to the deadly Palisades Fire. The firefighter, Scott Pike, gave sworn testimony that he observed at least five areas at the Lachman Fire scene that were still smoking and 'extremely hot', but his concerns were not taken seriously by leadership.

Why it matters

This case raises questions about the handling of the initial Lachman Fire and whether proper protocols were followed to ensure the fire was fully extinguished before crews were pulled from the scene. The lawsuit alleges the earlier fire was not completely contained, allowing residual heat to rekindle and contribute to the larger Palisades Fire, which resulted in significant damage and loss of life.

The details

According to the deposition, Pike, a 23-year member of the Los Angeles Fire Department, testified that some of the hot spots at the Lachman Fire scene were so intense that he hesitated to touch them. He said he reported his observations to fellow firefighters and a captain, but believed his concerns were not taken seriously. Pike also stated that he was never interviewed for the city's after-action report examining the response to the Palisades Fire.

  • The deposition testimony was given last month in connection with a lawsuit filed by approximately 3,000 Palisades Fire victims against the city and the state.
  • The Lachman Fire occurred prior to the Palisades Fire, which was allegedly fueled by residual heat from the earlier blaze.

The players

Scott Pike

A 23-year veteran of the Los Angeles Fire Department who gave sworn testimony in a lawsuit related to the Palisades Fire.

Los Angeles Fire Department

The fire department responsible for responding to and investigating the Lachman and Palisades Fires.

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What they’re saying

“I observed at least five areas at the Lachman Fire scene that were still smoking and 'extremely hot'. Some of the hot spots were so intense that I hesitated to touch them.”

— Scott Pike, Veteran Los Angeles Firefighter

What’s next

The judge presiding over the lawsuit filed by Palisades Fire victims is expected to rule on whether the case can proceed to trial, which could further examine the handling of the Lachman Fire and its potential role in the larger blaze.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of thorough fire suppression efforts and the need for rigorous post-incident reviews to identify any potential issues or oversights that could contribute to the reignition and spread of wildfires. The allegations raise concerns about the decision-making and communication within the Los Angeles Fire Department during the Lachman Fire response.