LOS ANGELES, CA — Los Angeles Fire Department Deputy Chief Kristine Larson is facing backlash after comments surfaced in which she appeared to blame fire victims for their circumstances, saying they were “in the wrong place” during emergencies.
During a discussion on firefighter capabilities, Larson responded to concerns about her physical ability to rescue individuals from burning buildings by stating, “He got himself in the wrong place if I have to carry him out of a fire.”
“You want to see somebody that responds to your house, your emergency, whether it’s a medical call or a fire call, that looks like you. It gives that person a little bit more ease knowing that somebody might understand their situation better. Is she strong enough to do this? Or, You couldn’t carry my husband out of a fire,” Chief Larson said in the video
The comments have drawn criticism from community members and safety advocates who argue that such statements reflect a lack of compassion for those affected by fires and emergencies.
Larson, a 33-year veteran of the LAFD and the department’s first African American woman to reach the rank of Deputy Chief, currently oversees the Equity and Human Resources Bureau. Her role focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the department.
Supporters of Larson point to her extensive service record and leadership in promoting DEI, while critics contend that her remarks undermine public trust in the department’s commitment to protecting all residents.
The LAFD has not yet issued an official statement addressing Larson’s comments.
Larson’s remarks have ignited a debate over accountability and empathy in emergency response leadership.