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Murder Investigation – 200 Block of Pine Ave. LB

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Murder Investigation – 200 Block of Pine Ave. LB

 

Homicide detectives are investigating a shooting that occurred on March 1, in the 200 block of Pine Avenue that resulted in the death of one male adult victim and injuries to two additional male adult victims.

On March 1, there was a special event in the downtown Long Beach area, which drew a large gathering. About 3:32 p.m., officers assigned to the area heard an altercation occurring. As they began responding, they heard gunshots coming from a parking structure in the 200 block of Pine Avenue.

Officers responded and saw a male adult victim with a gunshot wound. Officers rendered medical aid until relieved by Long Beach Fire Department personnel, who transported the victim to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The identification of the victim is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Two additional victims were located near the scene with non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. Both were transported to a local hospital in stable condition. The victims are described as male adults in their late teens to early 20s.

At this time, no suspect information is available. The motive for the shooting remains under investigation.

Homicide detectives believe there may be additional witnesses and video related to this incident and are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact homicide detectives Eric Thai and Chasen Contreras at 562-570-7244 or anonymously at 800-222-8477; www.lacrimestoppers.org.

A One-Hour Change, Serious Health Risks: The True Impact of Springing Forward

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A One-Hour Change, Serious Health Risks: The True Impact of Springing Forward

 

LONG BEACH — On March 8, most Americans will set their clocks forward one hour as daylight saving time or DST begins at 2 a.m. While the extra evening light is often welcomed, health experts caution that the abrupt loss of sleep can have measurable and sometimes serious consequences for both adults and children.

A growing body of research shows that the shift to daylight saving time is associated with increased health and safety risks in the days following the change. A landmark study published in Current Biology found a 6% increase in fatal car crashes nationwide during the week after the spring transition. Additional studies have linked the time change to a short-term rise in heart attacks, strokes, emergency room visits, and workplace injuries. Children and teens may also experience more difficulty concentrating in school, mood changes, and behavioral challenges due to sleep disruption.

Sleep specialists explain that even losing one hour of sleep can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm — the internal clock that regulates sleep, hormones, mood, and cardiovascular function.

“When we abruptly shift the clock forward, our bodies don’t immediately adjust,” said Dr. Jim Keany, Chief Medical Officer at Dignity Health St Mary Hospital in Long Beach. “Adults may notice grogginess, impaired reaction time, and increased stress. Children often show it differently — through irritability, difficulty waking up, trouble focusing in class, or changes in appetite and behavior.”

The biological impact stems in part from delayed melatonin release due to extended evening light. Melatonin is the hormone that signals the body it’s time to sleep. When its release is postponed, families may fall asleep later but still need to wake up early for work or school resulting in shorter, lower-quality sleep across the household.

Beyond physical health, sleep loss can also affect emotional well-being. Circadian disruption has been associated with increased symptoms of depression and anxiety, decreased productivity for adults, and reduced academic performance for children.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine continues to recommend adopting permanent standard time, citing growing evidence that seasonal clock changes disrupt circadian rhythms and are linked to increased risks of sleep disturbance, cardiovascular events, mood changes, and accidents. While the bi-annual time shift remains in place, experts emphasize the importance of planning ahead to protect sleep health for every member of the family.

Tips to Prepare for the Time Change:

  • Maintain a consistent, calming bedtime routine. For children, familiar patterns such as bath, book, and quiet time provide cues that it’s time to wind down. Adults also benefit from predictable evening habits.
  • Gradually shift bedtimes and wake times 15–30 minutes earlier for several days before daylight saving time begins.
  • Get morning sunlight to help reset your and your family’s internal clocks.
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol in the evening, as both can interfere with sleep quality.
  • Avoid heavy meals and screen time close to bedtime, especially for children and teens.
  • Prioritize at least seven hours of sleep per night for adults, with age-appropriate sleep for infants, children, and adolescents.

Use extra caution while driving or operating machinery during the week following the change, when fatigue- related risks are higher.

“Small adjustments can make a big difference,” Dr. Keany added. “When families prepare in advance, they can ease the transition, protect their health, and reduce the risk of preventable accidents.”

POLA Breaks Ground on $152 Million Avalon Pedestrian Bridge and Promenade Gateway Project in Wilmington

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POLA Breaks Ground on $152 Million Avalon Pedestrian Bridge and Promenade Gateway Project in Wilmington

 

LOS ANGELES—Federal, state and City of Los Angeles officials joined Los Angeles Harbor Commissioners, Port of Los Angeles officials and community leaders Feb. 26 to mark the start of construction on the $152 million Avalon Pedestrian Bridge and Promenade Gateway project in Wilmington.

The community-focused project will create public access to the Wilmington Waterfront Promenade via a new signature 380-foot-long bridge, which will also connect to a new open space public recreation area — the Avalon Promenade Gateway — also being built as part of the project.

The Avalon Pedestrian Bridge and Promenade Gateway project will transform 12 acres of former industrial land into open space that features a landscaped entry plaza with an iconic 40-foot-tall architectural sundial, a historic walk and overlook, an open terrace seating area, pedestrian pathways, community gathering areas, two parking lots and public restrooms. The project also involves street and utility improvements at Avalon Boulevard and A Street, including grading, paving, striping, lighting, and landscaping.

The site for the Avalon Pedestrian Bridge and Promenade Gateway is located between Harry Bridges Boulevard to the north and the Pacific Harbor Railroad Lines to the south in Wilmington, extending halfway between Marine Avenue and A Street to the west and Broad Avenue to the east. Construction is expected to be completed by late summer 2028.

The Avalon Pedestrian Bridge and Promenade Gateway is the third phase of the Port’s implementation of the Wilmington Waterfront Master Plan adopted in 2007. Grant funding for the project includes $10.2 million from Metro Measure M/South Bay COG; $42.1 million from the California State Transportation Agency; and $5 million from FHWA.

CD15 Policy Update on Local Assisted Living Center

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On Feb. 25, Councilman Tim McOsker introduced a motion regarding an approximate six acre property at 2100 S. Western Avenue in San Pedro, which has long operated as an assisted living and memory care facility serving this community. Recently, there have been indications that all or portions of the site may be considered for future sale or expansion, potentially to include transitional housing and inpatient and outpatient mental health services.

“Given the size and significance of the site and its current use, we must make sure the City is prepared and the community is informed if any further steps are taken,” said McOsker.

McOsker’s motion directs the planning department, in coordination with building and safety and the city attorney, to outline the local land use authority and the state and federal laws that might apply to any future development at the site.

Expungement Clinic Happening March 6

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Expungement Clinic Happening March 6

 

An expungement clinic will be held at the Harbor City – Harbor Gateway Library, located at 240th St. and Western Ave. The event is hosted by Assemblymember Mike Gipson and will take place March 6, from This clinic is a valuable opportunity for community members seeking assistance with clearing eligible records. To pre-register, please scan the QR code provided on the event flyer.

In the Harbor-area communities, the opportunity to expunge a past record can often unlock a new future start. Conversely, having a public record of old charges can hold people in our community back when they seek work, apply for a place to live, or try to enter public service.

Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., March 6

Details: For pre-registration or more information, call 562-252-0865

Venue: Harbor City Harbor Gateway Library, 24000 S. Western Ave., Harbor City

National Nurses Union: ‘End U.S. Blockade of Cuba’

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National Nurses Union: ‘End U.S. Blockade of Cuba’

 

National Nurses United or NNU, the nation’s largest union of registered nurses, March 2 condemned the Trump administration’s blockade on Cuba, which has created a humanitarian crisis on the island. The nurses called on the administration and Congress to end the blockade and allow full delivery of oil resources and other aid for the Cuban people.

Following its military assault on Venezuela and the kidnapping of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in January, the Trump administration initiated a blockade of oil shipments to Cuba, and it announced plans to impose tariffs on countries that provide oil to the island nation.

Those actions created frequent blackouts, shortages of gasoline and cooking gas, and dwindling supplies of diesel that power the nation’s water pumps. The impact has been particularly severe on health care services. Cuba’s Health Minister José Ángel Portal Miranda warned of an imminent threat to “basic human safety.”

“Depriving the Cuban people of essential resources needed to sustain life and health is an unconscionable violation of human rights and international law,” said NNU President Mary Turner, RN [Registered Nurse]. “What is now widely reported is a calamity with an especially harmful effect on pregnant women and children. As nurses, we will not be silent when our nation’s policies cause immense suffering for any people, whether at home or abroad.”

“The announcement today that the U.S. Department of the Treasury would allow the resale of Venezuelan oil for ‘commercial and humanitarian use’ in Cuba is a start, but does not go nearly far enough to address the growing calamity faced by the Cuban people,” Turner said.

Portal has warned that 5 million people in Cuba living with chronic illnesses will face disruption of medications or treatments, including 16,000 cancer patients requiring radiotherapy and another 12,400 undergoing chemotherapy. “Cardiovascular care, orthopedics, oncology, and treatment for critically ill patients who require electrical backup are among the most impacted areas,” he reported.

“It is long past time for a complete reversal in the regime-change policies of the U.S. in Cuba,” said Turner. The U.S. has carried out a blockade against Cuba since 1962 that has been condemned in overwhelming votes by the United Nations for 33 consecutive years.

NNU urged members of Congress to support legislative proposals to finally end the blockade, as represented by H.R. 7521, introduced by Massachusetts Rep. Jim McGovern. Turner said, NNU agrees with McGovern. She stated, “It’s time to throw away the failed policies of the past. Let’s focus on the people of Cuba — and let’s treat them like human beings who want to live their lives in dignity and freedom. The Cuban people — not politicians in Washington — ought to decide their own leaders and their own future.”

LBPD Arrests Two Suspects for Attempted Murder in Recent Shooting

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LBPD Arrests Two Suspects for Attempted Murder in Recent Shooting

 

On Feb. 22, 2026 about 12:49 p.m., officers responded to the 5300 block of Elm Avenue regarding a hit shooting.

Upon arrival, officers found a 14-year-old male victim with gunshot wounds to the upper body. Officers rendered lifesaving medical aid, including administering chest seals and a tourniquet. The boy was transported to the hospital in critical condition and is now in stable condition.

Gang detectives responded to the scene to investigate the shooting. They determined the victim was walking southbound on Locust Avenue when he was approached by a male suspect.

The victim attempted to flee, but the suspect pursued him on foot and fired several shots, striking the victim. The suspect then approached and pistol-whipped the victim. The suspect fled the scene on foot prior to officers’ arrival.

Detectives identified the suspect as a 14-year-old male resident of Long Beach. They arrested him on Feb. 23, 2026 in the city of Lakewood.

Detectives arrested 19-year-old Long Beach resident Jian Xavier Salas for his involvement in the shooting. He was booked for attempted murder and accessory after the fact. His bail is set at $75,000.

“No child should ever be subjected to any form of violence, and no one should ever be involved in committing such a brazen and heartless act,” said Chief of Police Wally Hebeish. “The attempted murder of a 14-year-old by another 14-year-old is both tragic and disheartening. I am incredibly grateful for the immediate medical aid provided by our responding officers. Their heroic efforts undoubtedly saved this young man’s life. Further, through their efforts, detectives arrested two suspects within 24 hours, reinforcing our commitment to stopping all forms of violence in our community.”

Detectives are actively investigating the motive for the shooting.

Detectives presented the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office on Feb. 25, 2026 for filing consideration.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact gang detectives Fernando Archuleta and Chad Manis at 562-570-7130 or anonymously at 800-222-8477, www.LACrimeStoppers.org.

Rep. Barragán Leads Opposition to Proposed HUD Rule That Could Displace Thousands of Mixed-Status Families

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Rep. Barragán Leads Opposition to Proposed HUD Rule That Could Displace Thousands of Mixed-Status Families

Washington, D.C. — Rep. Nanette Barragán (CA-44) Feb 27 led a letter to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development or HUD Secretary Scott Turner, urging the Department to withdraw its proposed rule, “Housing and Community Development Act of 1980: Verification of Eligible Status.” If finalized, the rule would eliminate federal housing assistance for families with mixed immigration status, threatening to displace tens of thousands of American families.

Under current law and federal regulations, HUD provides prorated housing assistance to households with eligible immigration status, based on the number of qualifying residents. Those without eligible immigration status have never received assistance. For example, in a family of four where three members are eligible, the household receives three-quarters of the assistance it would otherwise qualify for. This approach mirrors other federal benefit programs, including SNAP, that ensure only eligible individuals receive assistance.

“The Trump Administration is punishing working families and U.S. citizen children with this cruel proposal,” said Rep. Barragán. “HUD’s proration policy already protects eligible household members while denying benefits to ineligible adults. Ending it won’t make housing more affordable. It will put vulnerable families at risk of losing their homes.”

By overturning HUD’s proration policy, the Trump Administration’s proposed rule would dismantle this balanced system and force families into an impossible choice: separate their households or lose the assistance that keeps a roof over their heads. It would make entire households ineligible for assistance solely because one member lacks an eligible immigration status. The proposal would also expand documentation and verification requirements, increasing administrative burdens on public housing authorities and creating new obstacles for families seeking or maintaining assistance.

According to HUD, approximately 20,000 mixed-status households could be impacted by this proposal. Independent studies have shown that as many as 80,000 individuals could lose assistance if this rule is finalized. That number includes nearly 37,000 children, almost all of whom are U.S. citizens.

California would face some of the most significant impacts. Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley’s Terner Center for Housing Innovation estimate the state has approximately 7,190 households, accounting for 36 percent of all mixed-status households nationwide. Many of these families live in Los Angeles County, where most of the affected households include U.S. citizen children living with at least one adult who has not claimed eligibility for federal assistance.

In a state already facing severe housing shortages and skyrocketing rents, stripping assistance from thousands of legally eligible residents would further strain local housing authorities, destabilize communities, and increase the risk of homelessness among vulnerable families. For Los Angeles and other high-cost regions, where affordable housing waitlists stretch for years, the Trump Administration’s proposal would exacerbate an already dire affordability crisis.

To see the full letter, click HERE.

Bartlett Center Updated as Beacon House Catering Expands to Public Facing Services

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Bartlett Center Updated as Beacon House Catering Expands to Public Facing Services

Assemblymember Mike Gipson Tours Beacon House

In February, Beacon House welcomed California State Assemblymember Mike Gipson and his team for a tour of its campus.

After nominating Beacon House as Nonprofit of the Year in 2023, Assemblymember Gipson helped secure $1.25 million to renovate the Bartlett Center, transforming its kitchen and expanding the nonprofits capacity to serve those in need.

Beacon House produces nearly 1,000 meals daily, delivering three hot meals to seven local shelters. The upgraded facility has also launched a new catering initiative, supporting community events while generating resources that directly advance its mission of helping men recover from alcoholism and addiction.

This progress wouldn’t be possible without generous community members and leaders who understand the urgency of recovery services and champion their support.

 

New Avenues for Beacon House Catering

The men in Beacon House kitchen have been working hard behind the scenes recently. Beyond its normal outreach efforts providing daily meals to local shelters, the team has begun catering events for the public.

Beacon House provides catering for events in its local recovery community as well as partnering with organizations like the Palos Verdes Peninsula Rotary Club, who have been supporters of the nonprofit for years.

This program gives the men professional training and vocational skills. Early mornings, tight timelines, teamwork, and attention to detail all reinforce the discipline and growth that sustain long-term sobriety.

Now, Beacon House is officially stepping into a new chapter and making its services easier for the public to access. Stay tuned for the official launch of the Beacon House Catering website.

DPSS Promotes Guidance on How to “Keep Your Benefits”

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DPSS Promotes Guidance on How to “Keep Your Benefits”

 

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services or DPSS, in partnership with the Board of Supervisors and community stakeholders, has initiated an extensive outreach effort to help residents understand the new changes to eligibility, reporting, and renewal requirements resulting from state and federal policy updates associated with House Resolution 1 (H.R. 1).

The “Keep Your Benefits” campaign is a countywide, multilingual, culturally responsive, and immigrant-inclusive public information initiative designed to inform residents about the new policy changes and how they may affect CalFresh and Medi-Cal Programs. Campaign materials are available in Armenian, Cambodian, Chinese, English, Farsi, Korean, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese.

The campaign provides timely, accurate, and accessible information to help reduce confusion, as multiple policy changes are being implemented simultaneously. Outreach efforts include public webinars, short informational videos, digital graphics, and coordinated messaging distributed through DPSS communication channels, partner county departments and key community stakeholders.

The campaign also explains what current beneficiaries must do, such as completing recertifications and renewals, to maintain access to essential programs and services. DPSS encourages individuals and families to stay informed, stay connected, and take the appropriate steps needed to keep their benefits active.

DPSS has launched a dedicated “Keep Your Benefits” webpage that serves as a central hub for information on federal and state changes impacting eligibility for CalFresh and Medi-Cal. Additional resources, including a directory of local food banks and pantries, are also available on the department’s Food for Thought webpage.

Details: Visit DPSS website or call 866-613-3777

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