California police arrest two in Palisades Fire evacuation zone after ‘suspicious’ behavior

Following several arrests in recent weeks of individuals who authorities say impersonated firefighters, officials now say two more people have been taken into custody for pretending to be members of the media to enter a fire zone.

Authorities say the two suspects allegedly forged press passes to unlawfully enter a Palisades Fire evacuation zone. 

Officers stationed at road closures for the Palisades Fire came into contact with “two suspicious individuals,” who were at separate roadblock locations, California Highway Patrol said in a press statement on Sunday.

A California Department of Corrections hand crew works containment lines ahead of the Palisades Fire Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025 in Santa Monica, Calif.  (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)

“These arrests underscore the strength of our partnership with LASD as we work together to secure and protect the communities affected by the wildfires,” CHP said in the latest statement. 

“Criminal activities such as unlawful entry into evacuation zones, forging press passes, and looting will not be tolerated.”