Former Los Angeles Fire Chief Appeals Dismissal, but Faces Tough City Council Fight

She was recently fired by the mayor as LAFD chief, after alleged failures in leadership ahead of the January windstorm that led to massive, deadly fires.

Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley talks during a news conference at Harbor–UCLA Medical Center in the West Carson area of Los Angeles on Feb. 15, 2024. Richard Vogel/AP Photo

LOS ANGELES—Kristin Crowley, who was fired by Mayor Karen Bass as chief of the Los Angeles Fire Department last week, notified the city Thursday she is appealing her termination to the Los Angeles City Council.

Crowley announced the decision in an email sent to City Council members Thursday afternoon. In a statement, Crowley said, “Today I notified the City Council of my appeal as provided for in Los Angeles Charter, Article V, Section 5.08(e), due to Mayor Bass’ removal of me on February 21, 2025, from the position of Fire Chief of the Los Angeles City Fire Department.”