LOS ANGELES, CA – Authorities in Los Angeles County arrested two individuals over the weekend for allegedly impersonating firefighters in a Palisades Fire evacuation zone while operating what appeared to be a legitimate fire engine, officials said Sunday.
The suspects, identified as Dustin Nehl, 31, and Jennifer Nehl, 44, both residents of Oregon, were spotted by Los Angeles police officers on January 18. Officers reportedly became suspicious of the fire engine’s authenticity and contacted sheriff’s deputies, who intercepted the pair.
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD), the suspects were dressed in full firefighting gear, known as turnout gear, when approached by deputies. Both were also wearing shirts with “Cal Fire” branding beneath their uniforms and were in possession of helmets and radios.
The suspects told deputies they were members of the “Roaring River Fire Department” from Oregon. However, an investigation revealed that the department does not exist, and the fire engine they were driving had been purchased at an auction.
The sheriff’s department said the suspects admitted to having entered the evacuation zone the day before. Officials have not disclosed the relationship between Dustin and Jennifer Nehl but noted that Dustin has a history of criminal mischief in Oregon. Neither individual has a criminal record in California, according to authorities.
It remains unclear why the suspects attempted to access the restricted area while posing as firefighters. Officials have not provided information on potential charges beyond impersonating emergency personnel.
The LASD confirmed that the case will be submitted to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office on Tuesday for review.
Authorities are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact LASD’s Major Crime Bureau. Anonymous tips can be provided through the Los Angeles Regional Crime Stoppers hotline or online.
