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California gubernatorial candidates clash over costs, ICE raids, Trump in East LA College debate

Wed, 06 May 2026 00:28:36 -0700

Candidates in California's gubernatorial primary clashed sharply Tuesday evening over the state's high cost of living, immigration and their approach to President Donald Trump during a televised CNN debate at East Los Angeles College in Monterey Park.

The two-hour debate Tuesday, moderated by anchors Elex Michaelson and Kaitlan Collins, offered voters a high-profile forum to hear directly from candidates in one of the nation's most closely watched races.

The Republicans in the debate were podcaster and former television host Steve Hilton and Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco.

Democratic candidates were former U.S. Health and Human Services secretary and California attorney general Xavier Becerra, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, former congresswoman Katie Porter, billionaire financier Tom Steyer and former Los Angeles mayor and Assembly speaker Antonio Villaraigosa.

California Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond was not part of Tuesday's debate.

CNN said invitations to participate in the debate were based on several criteria, including meeting requirements set by the California secretary of state, raising or contributing at least $1 million to their campaign and demonstrating at least 3% support in qualifying polls.

During the debate, Becerra defended Democratic leadership, arguing the party is working to ensure economic opportunity for all residents.

"...Democrats are the ones that aspire to include everyone and not leave anyone behind. Like my parents, who came with $12 in their pocket to California, and they lived the California dream," Becerra said, adding that policies are aimed at making the economy work for a broader range of Californians.

Steyer said rising costs are affecting Californians across the board, pointing to housing as a central issue.

"The biggest problem in California is that Californians can't afford to live here anymore," Steyer said. "And it starts with housing, but it definitely includes healthcare, it includes electric costs, which are twice as high as in the rest of the country, and it includes soaring gasoline prices."

Steyer said he would pursue aggressive policy changes to address those costs, including confronting major corporate interests and utility providers, and expanding government involvement in healthcare.

Mahan said the state needs a more results-oriented approach, positioning himself as a candidate willing to challenge his own party.

"We don't need MAGA values, but we also don't need more of the same. I'm the only Democrat in this race who has challenged the establishment within my own party to demand better results," Mahan said.

He pointed to his record in San Jose, citing progress on public safety, housing development and efforts to reduce homelessness.

Hilton blamed Democratic leadership for the state's economic challenges, arguing long-standing one-party control has led to current conditions.

"The Democrats who are here ... have been responsible for 16 years of one-party rule for everything that we see in California, and they won't take responsibility," Hilton said.

Hilton said his campaign has focused on hearing directly from residents across the state, describing conversations with voters about economic struggles and declining affordability.

Villaraigosa challenged Hilton directly, criticizing him for refusing to acknowledge the outcome of the 2020 presidential election.

"You can't admit that Donald Trump lost the 2020 election," Villaraigosa said.

Villaraigosa said he has long criticized policies within his own party, particularly on affordability, while also drawing a contrast with Republican leadership. He argued that California's challenges require leaders willing to hold both parties accountable.

Porter said California must adapt to economic and technological changes while preparing for challenges from outside the state.

"We do need to make change in California. The world is changing around us, from artificial intelligence affecting jobs to the pace of climate change, and we have an unreliable federal partner that has made clear it will target California," Porter said.

Porter also pushed back on claims from other candidates, arguing she has a track record of taking on corporate interests. She said the state must focus on future challenges while protecting workers and consumers.

Bianco argued Democrats should not remain in power, blaming current conditions on long-term leadership in the state.

"We are going to get nothing but the same from them. They brought us here," Bianco said. "They do not deserve another chance."

Bianco said excessive regulations have driven up costs and hurt businesses, contributing to higher gas prices and affordability challenges.

The discussion grew more heated when candidates turned to immigration enforcement and California's sanctuary policies.

Bianco argued state laws limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities and said local officials have made enforcement more difficult by restricting where federal agents can operate.

Villaraigosa pushed back, saying Bianco misunderstood the law and that California still allows the transfer of violent offenders to federal authorities. He also attacked Bianco personally, calling him a "bully" and referencing his past affiliation with the far-right Oath Keepers group.

Bianco said he was proud of that past association but later clarified he is no longer a member.

Porter delivered one of the sharpest criticisms of Trump during the exchange.

"Donald Trump sucks. And I don't think that anyone who doesn't see that he is targeting and hurting Californians and won't stand up for everybody who is counting on them to be their leader and keep them safe, has no business being governor," she said.

Becerra pointed to his legal battles with the Trump administration, saying he has experience opposing federal immigration policies.

"We stopped him from trying to force local law enforcement to do the bidding of ICE," Becerra said.

Steyer called for stronger opposition to federal immigration enforcement, describing Immigration and Customs Enforcement in stark terms.

"It is absolutely critical that California's governor does stand up for everything in California, that, in fact, ICE, to me, is a criminal operation," Steyer said.

Asked about mask use by immigration agents, Bianco said the state has no authority over federal operations.

"I believe that the state of California doesn't get to dictate what they do," he said.

Candidates were also pressed on how they would deal with President Trump during the remainder of his term, exposing sharp divisions on whether to cooperate or confront.

Hilton, who was endorsed by Trump, said the next governor would need to engage with the White House to secure outcomes for California, framing cooperation as a practical necessity.

Democratic candidates largely rejected that approach, arguing Trump's actions have repeatedly targeted the state.

Collins pressed Porter on how she would deal with Trump, referencing a recent fundraising email in which she used an expletive directed at the president.

Porter said her approach would be driven by how federal policies affect California, arguing Trump has repeatedly taken actions she believes harm the state, including on disaster aid and economic policy.

"If he's gonna attack California, yeah, 'F' him," Porter said, repeating a censored version of the language she used in the campaign message.

Bianco said he would avoid focusing on national political figures, arguing the state's problems are rooted in decisions made by leaders in Sacramento.

Becerra pointed to his tenure as attorney general, again emphasizing his legal challenges against the Trump administration.

"Every time he tried to attack our state, when he tried to force us to do things that were against the law, when he tried to deny us our resources, we took him on. That's why I had to go toe to toe with him in court over 120 times. And most of those cases, we were able to win," Becerra said.

Mahan said his strategy would combine defending California's values with demonstrating effective governance.

"We've prohibited ICE from using city property as a staging area. But I will also never forget that the best resistance is delivering results, showing that California's progressive values work in practice," he said.

Steyer took a more confrontational tone, criticizing Trump's conduct and leadership style.

"He's a bully, and the only thing you can do is stand up to him," Steyer said.

Healthcare policy also emerged as a point of division, particularly over whether the state should pursue a single-payer system.

Porter pressed Becerra to take a clear position on the issue, while he responded that California should move incrementally toward broader coverage and disputed reports suggesting he opposed a single-payer model.

Villaraigosa and Mahan questioned the feasibility of such a system, warning it would be too costly and difficult to implement without federal support. Mahan instead pointed to potential savings through reducing administrative expenses and modernizing the system.

Steyer argued more sweeping changes are necessary, saying the current system is unsustainable and requires a fundamental overhaul.

Hilton criticized Democratic candidates for advocating policies he said would expand government spending, linking rising costs to broader access to publicly funded care.

Becerra and Porter expressed support for extending healthcare coverage to undocumented immigrants, a policy California expanded last year, though officials have since scaled back parts of the program due to rising costs.

Steyer said the state must pursue a different approach, arguing access to healthcare should be universal despite the financial challenges.

Housing policy also drew differing views, with candidates offering competing explanations for the state's affordability crisis.

Mahan pointed to efforts in San Jose to streamline construction and expand housing options, while Villaraigosa highlighted his record increasing development during his tenure as Los Angeles mayor.

Hilton called for more single-family home construction in less dense areas, while Bianco argued homelessness is primarily driven by mental health and substance abuse issues rather than housing supply.

Steyer said the state needs to build more housing more quickly, while also addressing local resistance to development, and proposed shifting costs away from local governments.

The candidates entered Tuesday's debate with varying levels of momentum, funding and recent scrutiny.

Bianco has faced legal challenges tied to his seizure of ballots during a recent special election, a move he has defended as lawful and approved by a judge.

Hilton entered the race with national backing, including an endorsement from Trump, and has framed his campaign as a push for political change in California.

Mahan joined the race earlier this year, positioning himself as a newer entrant with executive experience leading one of the state's largest cities.

Porter was initially seen as a leading contender before facing scrutiny over a video involving a staff member, which she later said she regretted.

Steyer has significantly outspent other candidates in the race, pouring tens of millions of dollars into his campaign.

Villaraigosa is making his second bid for governor after finishing third in the 2018 race and has received backing from Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass.

The debate follows a forum held last week at Pomona College in Claremont, where eight candidates spent about 90 minutes outlining their approaches to affordability, housing and the rising cost of living.

During that debate, Hilton and Bianco sharply criticized Democratic policies, blaming them for high housing costs and homelessness, while Democrats argued federal policies under President Trump had worsened affordability issues.

Candidates also clashed over gas prices and taxes, with Mahan calling for a temporary suspension of the state's gas tax and Becerra defending it as necessary to fund infrastructure.

Housing proposals were a central focus, with several candidates -- including Porter, Steyer and Villaraigosa -- supporting efforts to increase housing supply and streamline development, while Thurmond proposed using school district land for new housing.

Healthcare and wildfire preparedness also emerged as key topics, with candidates debating insurance reforms, prevention strategies and the role of state government in responding to disasters.

Fire under 110 FWY shuts down lanes; FOX 11 finds nearby tunnel encampments

Tue, 05 May 2026 23:17:56 -0700

A fire burning beneath the 110 Freeway in Wilmington has shut down northbound lanes for more than 24 hours as crews work to assess damage and clear a tunnel where at least one person had been living.

Firefighters flooded the tunnel to extinguish the flames, leaving it filled with water and debris.

"There’s a lot of debris in there — really kind of a filthy mess," an LAFD assistant chief said.

Just a few hundred yards away, more encampments line the freeway — with tents, trash and people living just feet from passing traffic.

"I’ve been doing this since I was 18 ... and I’m 31," one man living nearby said.

Some of those living in the area pointed to additional tunnels being used as shelter.

"I think maybe one person might have been in there," another man said when asked how many people may have been living inside the tunnel where the fire broke out.

FOX 11 also found another tunnel encampment nearby under the 110 Freeway, steps from where the fire started.

Los Angeles City Councilman Tim McOsker, who represents the area, said his office has received multiple complaints.

"We have, and we’ve called every single one of them in," McOsker said.

The incident comes after another major fire in 2023 shut down the 10 Freeway near downtown Los Angeles for days. That fire was also believed to have been tied to a nearby encampment, though officials still have not confirmed an official cause.

Crews are now using large vacuum systems to remove water from the tunnel so engineers can inspect for structural damage beneath the freeway.

It remains unclear when the northbound lanes will reopen. Officials say the timeline depends on what is found once the tunnel is fully cleared.

Shooting shuts down part of 210 Freeway for several hours before reopening

Tue, 05 May 2026 13:26:12 -0700

A shooting shut down a portion of the 210 Freeway near Sylmar for several hours before eventually reopening.

A portion of the 210 Freeway was closed in Sylmar after an officer-involved shooting broke out following an attempted carjacking on Tuesday afternoon, officials said.

The Los Angeles Police Department responded to a call around 1 p.m. on Tuesday, May 5 regarding an attempted carjacking and that the suspect was armed.

When LAPD officers found the suspect, the suspect took off onto the westbound lanes of the 210 Freeway and allegedly tried to carjack a big rig, police said. The truck could be seen stopped on the freeway near the overpass.

A short time later, shots were fired on the eastbound side of the 210 Freeway at Bledsoe Street. According to a report from the City News Service, the suspect was told multiple times by police to drop the weapon but didn't listen, resulting in the shooting.

The suspect fell to the ground after being hit and continued to ignore officers' commands, CNS reports.

Aerial images from SkyFOX showed a heavy police presence at the scene. The man was eventually taken into custody and taken to a hospital.

"We are still in the early stages of this investigation as there are still multiple witnesses to interview, to include the officers involved, as well as video to review and evidence to examine," LAPD said in a statement.

No innocent drivers were reported hurt in the incident. A handgun was also visible on the freeway, which police said will be booked into evidence and submitted for forensic analysis.

It is unknown if the suspect is linked to other crimes.

The roads eventually reopened to the public around 9 p.m. on Tuesday.

Powerball ticket worth $120,000 sold in California

Tue, 05 May 2026 19:09:36 -0700

A Powerbal ticket worth a little more than $120,000 was sold in California.

According to the California Lottery's website on Monday night, a ticket with four matching numbers – worth $122,105 – was sold within the state's borders. According to a report from the Sacramento Bee, that ticket was sold at Bluebird Liquor on Hawthorne Boulevard in Hawthorne.

This comes as a drawing for the then-jackpot of $20 million was held on Monday, May 4. The following were the winning numbers for the May 4 drawing, which apparently no one got all six numbers:

30, 36, 42, 60, 63. PB: 13.

The drawing for the upcoming $30 million jackpot will be held on Wednesday, May 6 at 8 p.m. PT.

HOW MUCH DO YOU WIN AFTER TAXES?

There are 30 million reasons to dream, especially what you would do with the jackpot money. However, one thing all lottery winners have to take into account is the fact that their prizes will be taxed.

So how much do you really get after taxes?

It depends on a couple of factors: do you have to pay state taxes where you live? Will you take the lump sum payment or the annuity payout?

According to Mega Millions' website, those electing to take the annuity option get one immediate payment followed by 29 annual payments. Powerball follows an identical process for paying out its jackpot winners.

Parents raise concerns over LGBTQ-themed school festival at a high school in East Los Angeles

Tue, 05 May 2026 18:12:25 -0700

Parents of students attending the Humanitas Academy of Art and Technology at Esteban E. Torres High School reached out to FOX 11, upset over a school event last week.

The Festival del Arcoiris, or Rainbow Festival, was described in a flyer as celebrating pride and diversity, with LGBTQ resources, student art, poetry, drag performances and more.

When parents began seeing videos of a twerking dancer on stage, they say they called the school, asking why they weren't notified. They were also concerned that the main sponsor of the event was the Queer Mercado.

A weekend community pop-up featuring booths with information and merchandise that happens once a month in the community, it is also a business created by one of the school's counselors. That concerns parents, who want to know why the school is promoting a staff member's business during school hours and on school grounds.

Another big concern comes from a mother, who shared a consent form she says was given to the students during the event to be filmed for a documentary by the "School of Sexuality."

The School of Sexuality is tagged, with Queer Mercado, on social media posts of the event, saying they are "making history in East LA's Festival del Arcoiris," the first annual Youth Pride Festival, "increasing visibility, empowering our youth and their families in partnership with LAUSD," which is also tagged on the posts.

None of the parents we spoke to remember being notified about the event, let alone signing release forms for their children to be videotaped. One parent said, "These kids have to get permission slips to watch a PG-13 movie. How does this fit in?" Several parents insisted they are not against exposing students to different groups, but not without notification, and not with "twerking dancers."

We reached out to the counselor behind the Queer Mercado, and LAUSD, and received the following statement from the latter:

"The Humanitas Academy of Art & Technology at Esteban E. Torres High School organized and produced El Festival del Arcoíris to promote belonging, empathy, and social awareness. The event featured resource booths, performances, speakers, and interactive student engagement activities."

North Hollywood’s TUMO center filling up fast as teens flock to free tech program

Tue, 05 May 2026 13:01:01 -0700

A free after-school program in North Hollywood is quickly filling up — and changing how teens learn.

TUMO Los Angeles, which opened six months ago, is already at capacity. About 600 students attend each week, with a waitlist just as long.

Inside, it doesn’t look like a school. No bells. No rows of desks.

Instead, teens are learning animation, game design, filmmaking, robotics, and more — all at no cost.

"We’ve been operational for six months… we’re serving 600 students each week… and have a waitlist of a similar number," said CEO Sawyer Hescock.

TUMO started in Armenia and has grown into a global network of learning centers. Its model is simple: give teens access to technology and creative tools — and let them explore.

"We provide completely free… education in technology and design… and the work students are creating has been phenomenal," Hescock said.

For students, that access is already shaping their futures.

"I came to TUMO to realize what my passions are… and I discovered I’m really interested in robotics and engineering," said Alyssa.

"I first came to explore… and now I’m into graphic design, game development, and programming," added Emil.

Organizers say the goal goes beyond teaching skills — it’s about opening doors and creating opportunity.

In a city built on possibility, TUMO is showing what can happen when young people are given access and the space to create.

110 Freeway: Northbound lanes in Wilmington closed indefinitely after tunnel fire

Tue, 05 May 2026 07:24:26 -0700

The northbound lanes of the 110 Freeway in the Wilmington and San Pedro areas remain closed following a tunnel fire, officials said.

Fire officials said crews responded to a fire around 7:50 p.m. Monday, May 4 on the northbound side of the freeway where they found remnants of a fire.

As crews worked to knock down the flames, the California Highway Patrol shut down the 110 Freeway in both directions from Harry Bridges Boulevard through Channel Street. Crews then reopened the southbound lanes by late Tuesday morning.

The fire is believed to have been started by people living in a nearby homeless encampment. FOX 11's Matthew Seedorff surveyed the scene as there was debris near where the fire started. More encampments were spotted a few-hundred yards from the tunnel, Seedorff observed.

LAFD Heavy Rescue and Urban Search and Rescue crews responded at to the northbound freeway where they found the remnants of a fire, LAFD spokeswoman Lyndsey Lantz said.

While most of the firefight was under control by Tuesday morning, crews have faced challenges in the confined space, saying the large amount of material inside the tunnel and surrounding area has been an issue. The material they found also includes some wooden structures.

Caltrans engineers were also at the scene assessing the structure and integrity of the freeway.

"It's really just a fire that we have to be patient with. It's too dangerous to put firefighters in the tunnel. You're going, you'd be going into an environment where it's actually venting. So the conditions are just smoke all banked all the way down to the ground," said LAFD Asst. Chief Carlos Calvillo. "We believe that not only the contents in there are burning, but heavy lumber that was used to form the tunnel is all still in there, and we believe that that material is burning as well. "

As of Tuesday, May 5, no arrests have been made, and no suspects have been identified in the May 3 tunnel fire.

Hantavirus outbreak on cruise ship kills 3 people, others sickened

Tue, 05 May 2026 11:49:34 -0700

A suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship has killed three people and sickened others, the World Health Organization said Sunday.

Here’s what’s known about the developing situation:

Hantavirus cruise ship outbreak

The World Health Organization said three people were dead and at least three others were sickened in a suspected hantavirus outbreak on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean. One person is currently in intensive care in South Africa.

One case of hantavirus has been confirmed in a laboratory, and the others are additional suspected cases, according to WHO.

An investigation was underway.

The cruise ship involved wasn’t named, and officials didn’t give details yet about the victims.

It also wasn’t clear how the virus originated.

WHO posted the information on social media:

South African authorities told the BBC the first person to show virus symptoms was a 70-year-old passenger who died on board. His wife also became ill on board and was evacuated to South Africa, where she died in a Johannesburg hospital.

South African media reports said the outbreak happened on the MV Hondius cruise ship while it was sailing from Argentina to Cape Verde off the coast of West Africa, The Associated Press reported.

What is hantavirus?

Hantavirus, found throughout the world, is spread by contact with urine or feces of infected rodents, most often rats or mice.

While rare, WHO said they can be spread between people and they can lead to severe respiratory illness.

Hantavirus was in the news after the late actor Gene Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa, died from hantavirus infection in New Mexico last year. Hackman died a week later at their home.

New polling shows tightening race for California governor

Tue, 05 May 2026 11:06:29 -0700

The race for California’s next governor remains wide open, according to two new polls released this week.

Two separate polls were released this week, providing a look at the current standing of the gubernatorial candidates. A poll conducted by SurveyUSA places Republican Steve Hilton in the lead with 20% of the vote. He is followed by Democrat Tom Steyer at 18%, Chad Bianco at 12%, and Xavier Becerra at 10%.

In contrast, a separate poll released by the California Democratic Party and conducted by Evitarus, a public opinion research consulting firm, shows a much tighter race at the top. In this survey, Steve Hilton and Xavier Becerra are tied for the lead, both garnering 18% of the vote.

The data shows the following:

SurveyUSA poll:

Steve Hilton: 20%
Tom Steyer: 18%
Chad Bianco: 12%
Xavier Becerra: 10%
Undecided: 17%

Evitarus poll (California Democratic Party):

Steve Hilton: 18%
Xavier Becerra: 18%
Undecided: 14% (down from a previous 24%)

This shift indicates that voters are beginning to settle on their preferred candidates.

Palisades Fire suspect was allegedly 'fixated' on Luigi Mangione and held 'resentment of the rich': court docs

Tue, 05 May 2026 10:12:03 -0700

The man accused of setting off the New Year's Day fire that led to the deadly Palisades inferno was apparently "fixated" with Luigi Mangione and held a "resentment of the rich," according to prosecutors.

Jonathan Rinderknecht was arrestedrin in October 2025 and charged with destruction of property by means of fire and pleaded not guilty after being charged in connection to the Palisades Fire in January 2025. In a new trial memorandum, prosecutors said Rinderknecht was apparently obsessed with Mangione, who is accused of assassinating UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.

"In the months leading up to the fire, he had become increasingly angry with his life and society at large," prosecutors wrote. "For example, in the weeks and hours leading up to the fire, defendant fixated on Luigi Mangione, who allegedly murdered the UnitedHealthcare CEO in New York City on December 4, 2024."

Rinderknecht searched the terms "free LuigiMangione," "lets take down all the billionaires" and "reddit lets kill all the billionaires" on Dec. 12 and 13, 2024, federal prosecutors said.

LUIGI MANGIONE ASSASSINATION CASE SIGNALS DOJ SHIFT ON DEATH PENALTY IN BLUE STATES, EXPERT SAYS

On Jan. 3, 2025, Rinderknecht allegedly took a screenshot of an article about Mangione pleading not guilty.

"Many of defendant’s Uber passengers on December 31, 2024 and January 1, 2025, described defendant as angry, intense, driving erratically, and ranting about being 'pissed off at the world' and Luigi Mangione, capitalism, and vigilantism," prosecutors wrote in a court filing.

When investigators asked Rinderknecht on Jan. 24, 2025 why someone might commit arson in the Pacific Palisades, he allegedly responded it would be out of resentment and invoked Mangione.

UNITEDHEALTHCARE CEO MURDER: IVY LEAGUE GRAD SUSPECT SPAWNS MOVEMENT FUELED BY ANTI-CAPITALIST SENTIMENT

"When investigators asked defendant why someone might commit arson in the Pacific Palisades, he responded that it would be out of resentment of the rich enjoying their money as 'we’re basically being enslaved by them' and compared such an act of 'desperation' to the murder for which Mangione was charged," prosecutors wrote.

Fox News Digital reached out to Rinderknecht's attorney for comment.

Mangione's attorney, Karen Friedman Agnifilo, told Fox News Digital in a statement: "As we have stated before in multiple public court filings, Mr. Mangione does not support violent actions and does not condone past or future political violence. These repeated attempts to connect him to unrelated acts or to insinuate that he condones or supports these acts are irresponsible, dangerous and prejudicial."

Before Rinderknecht allegedly started the fire that served as the precursor to the Palisades Fire, prosecutors said in the memo that he "exhibited extreme anger, indignation, and frustration about being unable to find companionship on New Year’s Eve."

Specifically, prosecutors alleged, Rinderknecht was frustrated about his relationship with a former co-worker he briefly dated in March 2024. When the former co-worker requested space from him on Dec. 30, 2024, Rinderknecht "left her two manic voicemails and entered prompts into ChatGPT expressing his extreme displeasure of her treatment of him," prosecutors said.

Federal authorities said Rinderknecht worked as an Uber driver in Los Angeles from New Year's Eve 2024 to New Year's Day 2025, adding that two of his passengers expressed that "he appeared agitated and angry that night after dropping off a passenger in Pacific Palisades."

After allegedly sparking the fire after parking at the Skull Rock trailhead, Rinderknecht called 911, then asked ChatGPT, "Are you at fault if a fire is lift [sic] because of your cigarettes?"

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

ChatGPT, according to the complaint, responded with "Yes," and explained.

While prosecutors allege that Rinderknecht sparked the Lachman Fire, which was put out Jan. 2, heavy winds reignited underground embers, which sparked the Palisades Fire. In total, the Palisades Fire claimed the lives of 12 people and left many displaced.

Rinderknecht has been charged with destruction of property by means of fire, arson affecting property used in interstate commerce and timber set afire.

Click here for more stories from FOX News.

Fairfax smash-and-grab spree leaves shattered storefronts, one suspect in custody

Tue, 05 May 2026 08:58:22 -0700

Multiple businesses were targeted in a series of morning break-ins along Melrose Avenue in the Fairfax District overnight. One of the suspects was taken into custody after Los Angeles Police Department officers set up a perimeter in the area.

Officials with the Los Angeles Police Department said at least three businesses were hit along a stretch of Melrose Avenue early Tuesday morning.

The locations include:

Milk Bar, located at 7150 Melrose Avenue near North La Brea Avenue;
NailBay, located at 7201 Melrose Avenue near North Formosa Avenue;
LALA’S Argentine Grill, located at 7229 Melrose Avenue near North Alta Vista Boulevard.

The LAPD said officers were dispatched to Milk Bar just after 4 a.m. after a business alarm was triggered. The glass storefront was smashed in, but it's unclear what, if anything, was taken.

Surveillance video from another business shows two masked men kicking in the glass storefront of NailBay after appearing to run across the street with a cash register in hand.

In total, three businesses within roughly three blocks were affected.

"Somebody got inside and they took the cash register, the iMac, and maybe more inside," said NailBay owner Ny Truong.

"We have footage of someone coming up and throwing a register drawer right into our door, but it didn’t break," said Bert Song, who owns a coffee shop next door to the nail salon.

"We've only been here a little over a year. Last year, they broke in, and when we spoke to our neighbors, they said this happens every year," Song said.

Police have not released descriptions of the suspects or confirmed how many individuals were involved in total.

Investigators have also not confirmed whether the incidents are connected beyond occurring within the same area and timeframe.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the LAPD at 213-486-5910.

Man arrested after deadly hit-and-run crash in Van Nuys

Tue, 05 May 2026 08:36:13 -0700

A man was arrested following a deadly hit-and-run crash at a busy Van Nuys intersection, officials said.

Officers with the Los Angeles Police Department were called to the intersection of Sepulveda Boulevard and Sherman Way just before 10:10 p.m. Monday, May 4, following reports of a man lying in the roadway.

Witnesses told arriving officers they saw a white four-door BMW traveling southbound along Sepulveda at a high rate of speed when a pedestrian was struck inside a crosswalk.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

Investigators said the driver fled the scene. The suspect, described only as a 40-year-old man, was later located and taken into custody.

The names of the victim and suspect have not been released by authorities.

California teen, with a 4.3 GPA, gets accepted to all 31 colleges he applied to

Tue, 05 May 2026 07:48:23 -0700

An Oakland high school senior, with an impressive 4.3 grade point average, was accepted to all 31 colleges to which he applied. And last week, after weighing his options, which included top-ranking, world-renowned universities, he announced his college choice.

Dominic Antoine Jr., who recently turned 18, attends Fremont High School in East Oakland. Many know him by his nickname "Pooda."

On May 1, referred to as "National College Decision Day," Antoine announced his plans to attend Louisiana State University.

"I applied for biology with pre-med track," the teen shared with KTVU.

He said the decision was a very difficult one, with every school he applied to responding with a yes.

"No rejections!" Antoine shared emphatically.

Other schools on the final list

Schools on Antoine's short list included the University of California, Los Angeles and the University of California, Berkeley, both consistently holding top national rankings, often exchanging the #1 and #2 spots for the best public universities in the country.

As part of the application process, he used the Common Black College Application to apply to dozens of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Among the other schools on his final list were: Howard University in Washington, D.C., Tennessee State University, and Morgan State University in Maryland.

Top-tier private research school, Syracuse University in New York, was also heavily considered.

Why LSU?

In the end, he said, "I knew where my heart was and I trusted my gut."

The teen shared that he felt attending LSU would help him realize his dream of becoming a doctor.

In a previous interview with KTVU, Antoine had said that Louisiana State was the first college he'd heard back from and that, along with a spot, the school had offered him a top-tier, merit-based scholarship package.

He also acknowledged his college decision would be based on academics. While he had received interest from a couple of schools that had reached out to him about the possibility of playing basketball for them, the teen said that he would be making academics his main priority.

Creative video announcement

On Instagram on Friday, Antoine posted an artistic video of himself as he made his college choice announcement.

"Next stop: Louisiana State University 💜💛chasing my path toward orthopedic surgery🩺," he wrote in the caption.

In the video, he creatively acted out the journey he's set to embark on.

But first, he illustrated his relationship with the sport he loves. He's seen working hard on an outdoor basketball court, fluidly moving the ball and making bucket after bucket.

Once his workout ends, he walks off the court, dropping his ball and letting it roll away.

He then goes over to the trunk of his car, where he pulls out a white medical coat, puts it on and places a stethoscope around his neck. He gets behind the wheel, and inside the car, the vehicle is adorned with various pennants with university logos.

The video ends with him driving away, with an LSU Tigers pennant hanging out of the trunk of his car.

KTVU first shared about Antoine back in February, after the varsity basketball player was voted first team all-league.

It was around that time he also went viral when he was highlighted in a social media post stemming from his attendance at the Black College Expo at the Oakland Convention Center.

In the post by educator and best-selling children's book author Claudia Walker, two bystanders got wind of what a standout student Antoine was and shared their excitement.

"4.3 student athlete, varsity basketball. They don’t yell it out enough!" one man shouted out with pride for the Oakland student, whom he had just met.

Antoine said when the two strangers got wind of his GPA, they wanted to share this fact with others around them.

"So then he's like, 'No, no, we gotta take this to everybody! Everybody’s gotta see this. You doing your thing, bro.' And I'm just sitting here smiling, and he just started yelling it. And it was just such a special moment for me," the teen recounted, saying while it was a fun experience, he felt a little awkward getting all that attention.

Student-athlete

Beyond his academic achievements, Antoine has also made an impression on the basketball court, both for his athletic abilities and his qualities as a strong leader.

"There was something about him," Coach Derek Smith shared with KTVU back in February, noting it was apparent the first time he saw the kid play in a tournament as a middle schooler.

Smith said he recruited the teen to join his Amateur Athletic Union traveling basketball team, The Right Way Academy. For the past four years, he's been able to play a role in Antoine's life as not only a coach but a mentor.

"I wouldn't trade him for nothing in the world. I wish I had 12 of him," the coach said. "This kid is phenomenal. I'm telling you, he's on a whole other level."

‘Caring leader’

Those leadership skills have been demonstrated at his high school, where Fremont's principal called Antoine "a caring leader who advocates for all students."

Principal Nidya Baez said the young man takes extra care in helping those who learn differently. "He fights for inclusion of students with disabilities in activities and goes out of his way to make them feel welcomed," Baez shared with KTVU.

Antoine said he takes being a role model and mentor very seriously. He has served his school community as a peer tutor and said he especially enjoys helping students with math.

He’s also stepped up to assist classmates with their own college applications.

His higher than 4.0 GPA was achieved through doing well in Advanced Placement courses, including in biology, English literature, and U.S. History. During high school, Antoine also dually enrolled in college-level courses.

The student-athlete explained that he loves the sciences, like physiology and biology, and a driving force for wanting to become an orthopedic surgeon is that he’s greatly benefited from this field of medicine.

In addition to basketball, he’s also been on football and track teams, and he’s plenty familiar with sports injuries.

"A lot of back and forward to orthopedics, getting MRIs, getting x-rays, getting checkups," he shared.

When a doctor provides answers and treatment solutions for an injury, he said, "I feel so relieved after being helped."

Journey thus far and looking ahead

That's a gift he wants to pay forward and give to others.

The second of six children, the Oakland native said he's full of gratitude for the support and love from his family.

The LSU-bound student knows all of his hard work has paid off as he looks ahead with the same focused attitude and approach that have gotten him thus far.

"Stepping into a new chapter with purpose, discipline, and vision. From where I started to where I’m headed—nothing was given, everything earned," the teen shared. "This is bigger than me… it’s about impact, legacy, and opening doors that weren’t always open. Grateful for the journey, locked in for what’s next."

All along the way, Antoine has used his journey to try and inspire others.

In March, as he weighed his options for the next years of his academic life, he sent out an uplifting and encouraging message on social media about going after your dreams.

"I just want to express that hard work, discipline, sacrifice, dedication, and utmost focus can bring you every step closer to the goals you aspire to have," the young man said. "My achievements are just a representation of what a kid from Oakland can do, when proper commitment is applied… I promise everyone that reads this, ‘YOU CAN DO IT TOO.’"

Valentina Orellana-Peralta: Closing arguments underway over teen girl shot by LAPD at Burlington

Tue, 05 May 2026 02:33:02 -0700

Closing arguments are underway in the trial over the deadly 2021 shooting of Valentina Orellana-Peralta. Orellana-Peralta was hiding in a North Hollywood Burlington store fitting room during a violent incident when the 14-year-old girl was hit by a stray bullet from a Los Angeles police officer.

On Dec. 23, 2021, Orellana-Peralta was in the second-floor dressing room of the Burlington store on Victory Boulevard, trying on Christmas dresses with her mother, when Los Angeles police responded to a call of a man accused of attacking multiple people with a bike lock. As the encounter between the man armed with a bike lock, later identified as Daniel Lopez, 24, and police intensified, one of the officers — identified as William Dorsey Jones Jr. — fired his rifle. That was when the stray bullet hit and killed the 14-year-old girl. Lopez also died in the incident.

More than four years after the girl's death, LAPD is being sued for wrongful death.

"It's a wrongful death case, but it's also a negligent infliction of emotional distress and PTSD case," said Nick Rowley, the attorney representing Valentina's grieving family. "Valentina's mother was holding her when she was shot with the AR-15. She had her daughter die in her arms in the most unimaginable way."

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The closing arguments in the wrongful death trial also come two years after the Justice Department decided not to file criminal charges against the LAPD officer whose bullet ultimately killed Orellana-Peralta.

FOX 11's Christina Gonzalez reports the closing arguments could wrap as early as Tuesday, May 5.

Anti-ICE signs popping up on public places in Los Angeles

Mon, 04 May 2026 23:24:14 -0700

A growing clash is unfolding between Los Angeles city leaders and federal authorities over immigration enforcement, as hundreds of new signs go up across the city declaring public property off-limits for federal agents.

More than 450 signs have been installed at parks, libraries, parking lots and transit hubs, including MacArthur Park, Lafayette Park and the Los Angeles Zoo. The signs state that city property is not to be used for immigration enforcement activities, including as staging areas, processing sites or operational bases.

The move is part of Executive Directive 17, issued earlier this year by Karen Bass.

"I will not stand by while federal agents use our neighborhoods as staging grounds for fear and intimidation," Bass said in a statement to FOX 11. "In Los Angeles, we are setting clear boundaries: city property will not be used to carry out these raids."

But federal officials say the signs carry no legal weight.

"I just think this whole thing is silly. The signs have no legal weight, force or effect on anything the federal government does," said Bill Essayli. "Federal agents will go anywhere they need to go to enforce federal law, including city property."

When asked directly whether the signs would stop federal immigration enforcement, Essayli responded, "No. Not at all. They’re null and void. They mean nothing to us."

The signs have drawn mixed reactions from residents.

At Lafayette Park, some people said they hadn’t noticed the postings but support the message behind them.

"These are people’s families out here... that’s not right," said Eric Smith, who was at the park.

Others acknowledged the intent but questioned the impact, noting federal authorities have made clear they are not bound by the city’s directive.

The issue is especially visible at MacArthur Park, where federal agents conducted an operation last summer that drew backlash. During that incident, Bass publicly called on Border Patrol agents to leave the area.

City officials have not disclosed the cost of producing and installing the signs. However, based on industry estimates of roughly $500 per sign for production and installation, the total could reach around $250,000.

Despite the uncertainty over cost and enforcement, the signs now stand as a visible symbol of an escalating dispute between City Hall and the federal government over immigration policy — and where that policy can be carried out.

DACA recipient loses job over permit delay, turns to selling burritos in North Hollywood

Mon, 04 May 2026 20:19:10 -0700

The sound of eggs cracking on a hot griddle now marks the start of Cesar’s workday. Just weeks ago, he was sitting behind a desk, working in human resources for a manufacturing company.

It was the career he studied for after graduating from Cal Poly Pomona.

"I love the job, it’s what I studied, it’s what I went to college for," Cesar said.

That career came to a sudden end, not because of job performance, but because of a delay in federal paperwork. (NOTE: We are identifying Cesar by his first name only and not naming his former employer to protect him from potential retaliation tied to his immigration status.) Cesar is a recipient of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, a program that allows certain undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children to live and work legally. Recipients must renew their work permits every two years.

This time, Cesar’s renewal didn’t come through in time, even though he applied four months in advance. Without a valid permit, federal law required his employer to terminate him. There is no grace period.

"My thought process was, what am I going to do for money? We have a mortgage to pay," Cesar said. "Not only did I lose my job, my sister also lost her job."

His sister, also a DACA recipient and a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, had been working at a law firm before losing her job under similar circumstances.

Immigration attorney Jose Osorio says cases like Cesar’s are becoming more common. "Some delays are taking about a year," Osorio said. He says what was once a relatively predictable renewal process has become increasingly uncertain, leaving recipients without income and, in some cases, at risk of immigration enforcement. "The fees went up last year for DACA renewals, and yet the processing times are slower than ever," Osorio added.

According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, most DACA renewals were taking about 122 days as of late April, but that timeline is growing. Some federal lawmakers say applicants are waiting six months or longer. California is home to more than 141,000 active DACA recipients, the largest number in the country.

For Cesar, the delay has forced a complete pivot. "I barely sleep now," he said. "As soon as I’m done with this, I have to go to the grocery store, buy the meat, go home, cut it ... make the salsa." Now, he spends his days cooking and selling burritos in North Hollywood, relying on social media to bring in customers.

After sharing his story online, support began to grow. Customers are now making the trip to buy his food and show solidarity. "I just heard his story, and I feel there’s a lot of people out here with similar stories," said customer Danny Espinal. "It’s unfortunate."

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services issued the following statement: "Under the leadership of President Trump, USCIS is safeguarding the American people by more thoroughly screening and vetting all aliens, which can lengthen processing times."

Osorio advises DACA recipients to apply for renewals at least one year in advance to avoid lapses in work authorization, though even early applications no longer guarantee timely approval.

Cesar says the experience has been overwhelming, but he’s focused on staying afloat while he waits for his paperwork. He’s also sharing a message with others facing similar uncertainty. "Don’t give up," he said. "Even though your back’s against the wall ... don’t give up. Try something new."

FOX 11 to host Los Angeles mayoral forum on May 13

Mon, 04 May 2026 16:51:55 -0700

We are just weeks away from the June 2 California primary election and candidates are entering the final stretch of campaigning in the race to become the next mayor of Los Angeles.

FOX 11 has partnered with the Pat Brown Institute for Public Affairs and the League of Women Voters of Greater Los Angeles to host a live, televised forum featuring four of the leading candidates. The event will air live on FOX 11 on Wednesday, May 13, from 6 p.m. PT to 7:30 p.m. PT. FOX 11 anchors Marla Tellez and Bob DeCastro will moderate the forum.

Following the Q&A forum, there will be post-forum analysis from 7:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. featuring local political experts.

Below is a scheduled list of participants:

Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles
Rev. Rae Huang, pastor and housing advocate
Adam Miller, entrepreneur and nonprofit founder
Nithya Raman, City Councilmember

Candidate Spencer Pratt was invited to attend, but declined, citing a scheduling conflict.

Why host the forum?

The May 13 event will be a nonpartisan civic engagement initiative designed to inform, educate, and activate voters ahead of the 2026 primary election. Organizers of the forum explained that the central goal of the event is to place candidates on the record regarding issues of importance to Los Angeles communities, ensuring voters have clear, comparable insights into where each candidate stands on the challenges facing the city.

As for the forum format, each candidate will be asked the same questions and topics for the Q&A session will be suggested by the event’s partners and members of the public. Questions will be developed by PBI, the League and FOX 11.

Bear tranquilized after roaming San Fernando Valley neighborhood

Mon, 04 May 2026 11:56:37 -0700

A bear roamed around a San Fernando Valley neighborhood on Monday.

Aerial images from SkyFOX showed the bear climbing fences, walking through yards, and eating outdoor pet food in the Pacoima area in the 12300 block of Terra Bella Street, near Hansen Dam.

Fish and wildlife officials were called to the scene and by 12:30 p.m., the bear was tranquilized.

No injuries or damages were reported.

Britney Spears sentenced to 12 months probation following misdemeanor DUI in California

Mon, 04 May 2026 08:46:11 -0700

Britney Spears pleaded guilty during her arraignment Monday after being charged with a misdemeanor count of driving under the influence of a combination of drugs and alcohol.

Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nazarenko called driving under the influence "an extremely serious crime" with "catastrophic consequences" during a press conference after the arraignment.

Nazarenko explained Spears will undergo a 12-month probation period as well as a three-month treatment plan in alcohol rehabilitation.

"Ms. Spears will have a diminished expectation of privacy in her car as a result of this informal probationary grant," said Nazarenko, adding that "she cannot drive with any intoxicant in her body."

"We understand that one of the key components of the disposition this morning was to make sure that Ms. Spears continues to undergo her mental health and substance abuse treatment regime. We are wholly in support of her doing so."

He said this includes visiting with a psychiatrist at least twice a month and weekly visits and sessions with a psychologist.

Late last week, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office filed the formal charge against Spears, citing the combined influence of alcohol and at least one drug.

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Officials said the incident took place on Wednesday, March 4, when the 44-year-old pop star was pulled over by California Highway Patrol officers on the 101 Freeway in the Newbury Park area.

CHP investigators said Spears displayed signs of impairment and failed a series of field sobriety tests at the scene.

Spears was then booked into a Ventura County jail and released on bail the following day.

Her legal team and representatives have described the incident as "completely inexcusable" and confirmed that the singer voluntarily checked into a substance abuse treatment facility about one month after the arrest.

The specific nature and quantity of the drugs or alcohol involved were not disclosed in the criminal complaint.

It's unclear which specific substance triggered the "combined influence" charge, as the results of the chemical toxicology tests remain part of the non-public investigative file.

California law allows her attorney to appear on her behalf because the charge is a misdemeanor.

Suspect allegedly armed with box cutter at South LA shopping center arrested: LAPD

Mon, 04 May 2026 08:03:02 -0700

A suspect allegedly armed with a box cutter was taken into custody following a standoff with Los Angeles Police Department officers in South LA on Monday morning.

The incident happened in the 5800 block of South Vermont Avenue. During the standoff, the shopping center was evacuated and Augustus F Hawkins High School was placed on lockdown.

LAPD officials said the suspect was taken into custody just before 9 a.m.

Kamala Harris endorses Karen Bass for LA mayor re-election

Mon, 04 May 2026 07:06:43 -0700

Former U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris has officially endorsed a candidate in the crowded Los Angeles mayoral race, throwing her support behind incumbent Mayor Karen Bass.

Mayor Karen Bass is currently seeking re-election as the city heads toward the June 2 primary election. Bass has stated her campaign remains focused on the following:

Affordability: Tackling the rising cost of living in the city.
Infrastructure: Repairing and modernizing L.A.’s city systems.
Public Safety: Implementing strategies to make Los Angeles safer.

Other influential leaders to endorse Bass for re-election include former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senator Adam Schiff.

Also, it was recently reported that reality star Spencer Pratt and Councilwoman Nithya Raman are currently leading the race in fundraising efforts.

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In a statement released Monday, May 4, Harris praised the mayor's track record over her first term.

"Mayor Karen Bass is the leader Los Angeles needs right now," Harris said. "She has done what so many said couldn’t be done — the first-ever two-year decline in homelessness, reducing crime to levels this city hasn’t seen since the 1960s, and refusing to back down when the federal government came after our neighbors. She has my full support for re-election."

"I am deeply honored to have the support of Vice President Kamala Harris, who has spent her career fighting for the people of Los Angeles and our country," Bass said. "Her endorsement is a reflection of what we’re building together: a Los Angeles that is safer, more affordable, and unafraid to fight for its values," Bass said in response.

Redondo Beach Pier reopens after police activity

Mon, 04 May 2026 00:11:21 -0700

Police in Redondo Beach shut down the city's iconic pier for about four hours Sunday after receiving an unspecified threat, briefly delaying the opening of a nearby music festival.

The Redondo Beach Police Department responded about 9:35 a.m. Sunday to a "reported hostage situation involving possible explosives in the area of the Redondo Beach Pier," said police Lt. Mark Valdivia.

"Upon arrival, officers established a perimeter around the pier and directed residents and visitors in the affected area to shelter in place and avoid the area while officers conducted a systematic search," Valdiva said. "After an extensive search, officers determined there was no active threat to the pier, nearby residents or the surrounding community."

The Federal Bureau of Investigation responded to assist Redondo Beach police with the investigation, he said.

The pier was reopened about 1:35 p.m., Valdiva said.

City Councilman Brad Waller wrote the following post on the BeachLife Festival's Facebook page about 1 p.m.: "There was no threat made to BeachLife, but out of an abundance of caution, they want to ensure that the area is safe before thousands of people enter."

Waller added: "The pier area and BeachLife space were searched, and nothing was found. BeachLife should be ready to open and proceed. The pier will remain closed for a bit longer."

About 1:45 p.m., festival officials posted that they had been given the go-ahead to open doors. Sunday is the conclusion of the three-day festival, with Sheryl Crow, My Morning Jacket and James Taylor among those scheduled to perform at the Seaside Lagoon, a short distance north of the pier.

Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact the Redondo Beach Police Department Detective Bureau at 310-379-2477, ext. 3507.

Beverly Hills standoff ends with rideshare driver's arrest

Sun, 03 May 2026 16:47:17 -0700

An attempted murder suspect, identified as Osvaldo DelRio, was taken into custody following an hours-long standoff in Beverly Hills. Authorities said the suspect attempted to kill a Los Angeles County sheriff's deputy with his car.

SkyFOX was over the scene as the suspect led the Beverly Hills Police Department on a chase Sunday, May 3. The suspect was an alleged rideshare driver in a gray pickup truck. According to Beverly Hills PD, one of its officers tried to get the driver to pull over, but the suspect refused to stop, prompting a short police chase.

At one point prior to the standoff, DelRio allegedly committed attempted murder on a peace officer. Once the pickup truck stopped and a standoff ensued around 2:45 p.m., officials later revealed a hostage was being held inside the suspect's pickup truck.

At around 10:45 p.m., FOX 11's Matthew Seedorff reported that the hostage – the ride share passenger – safely got out of the suspect's car.

The suspect was eventually taken into custody overnight.

He remains in custody and his bail was set at $1,000,000 for attempted murder.

Prior to the crime spree, which included allegations of holding a person hostage and committing attempted murder on a peace officer, officials did not say whether the suspect had been linked to other crimes, other than the fact that the suspect was wanted for a felony allegation outside of LA County. The Beverly Hills Police Department posted on social media, asking the public to avoid the area.

Uber releases statement

"This must have been a terrifying experience. We’re grateful to law enforcement for their response and relieved that no one was seriously injured. We have removed the driver from the platform, and are standing ready to support law enforcement with their investigation," an Uber spokesperson said.

Playa del Rey hit-and-run crash leaves 2 dead, 2 injured

Sun, 03 May 2026 19:57:16 -0700

Authorities were asking witnesses to come forward after two people were killed, including a child, and two others were injured following a hit-and-run crash in Playa del Rey.

Los Angeles Police Department officials said the crash happened around 4:30 a.m. Sunday.

"Just learning about it on my walk here, it's devastating," a Playa del Rey resident said.

Authorities say the two-car accident near Vista del Mar, south of Culver Boulevard, left one man and a 1-year-old dead.

LAFD says a woman was also injured in the crash and is in critical condition.

"It's horrible, what you just told me, tragic," one Playa del Rey resident said.

Fire officials say one of the drivers involved in the accident fled the scene.

First responders say the suspect is a man in his 30s.

"It's crazy, people come flying down there all the time, it's narrow," another resident told FOX 11.

Right now, it's unclear if speed or alcohol was a factor in Sunday's crash, but residents say that stretch has historically been prone to people driving at high speeds.

"Generally, what you will see is people braking really hard as you go into that," one man said.

"In general, I think people are always just driving too fast," another person said. "I can't speak to the details of what happened. I'm just learning about this now, but it's devastating."

The relationship of the victims is still unknown.

A GoFund me has been set up for a funeral service.

The names of the victims have not been released pending next of kin notification.

Those who may have witnessed the crash or have information about the suspect are asked to contact the LAPD.

West Hills family's truck stolen by suspects caught on surveillance video

Sun, 03 May 2026 16:06:55 -0700

Break-ins have left families across the San Fernando Valley on edge. On Saturday, a West Hills family appears to be targeted by thieves with video showing the suspects drive off with the family's truck.

Neighbors believe these suspects may have been canvassing the area days earlier.

"We have a neighborhood watch down the street, we're pretty vigilant over where we're at," said one resident.

Some residents in West Hills are on high alert after a string of recent break-ins and burglaries hit the San Fernando Valley.

But Saturday morning it was their neighborhood that appeared to be targeted.

Home surveillance cameras capture four suspects walking in West Hills near Highlander Road. In the video, you can see one of the suspects reach through the driver-side window that's shattered to get in the truck. In the video, you can see the suspect then drive off.

Neighbor surveillance video shows at least four suspects dressed similarly appear to canvas the area on Wednesday. FOX 11 is waiting to hear from police if they are the same individuals who targeted the house off Highlander Road and drove off with the resident's truck.

Earlier this week, a Woodland Hills home was broken into with kids inside, leaving the family terrified.

"I feel pretty safe, but I know there are issues, so everybody should just be careful and be aware," a West Hills resident told FOX 11 Saturday.

Some longtime West Hills residents say news of the stolen truck was surprising since the area has largely been quiet over the years.

"It's very safe, it's a really pleasant neighborhood, people have lived here for a long time, they've raised children, so I mean I'm not going anywhere."

FOX 11 reached out to LAPD for an update on the suspects. We are waiting to hear back.