Family sues LA County after deputy dies in mobile gun range fire

In the United States, particularly in California, a tragic incident involving the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has resulted in a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of Deputy Alfredo 'Freddy' Flores. The deputy suffered critical injuries from a fire that occurred on October 10, 2023, while he was participating in a mandatory firearm recertification session inside a mobile gun range trailer at the Pitchess Detention Center. After enduring extensive medical complications for six months, he passed away on April 20, 2024. Another deputy who was present during the incident also sustained serious injuries but survived. The lawsuit, filed on April 21, 2024, alleges that the sheriff's department was negligent in properly maintaining the mobile gun range, which allegedly contributed to the hazardous conditions that led to the fire. The family seeks compensation for damages based on claims of constitutional violations, negligence, and product liability against the law enforcement agency. The lawsuit raises concerns regarding the accumulation of hazardous materials like unburned gunpowder, propellant, and lead within the trailer, which reportedly ignited and caused the fire. Additionally, the lawsuit implicates the mobile gun range's manufacturer, Inveris Training Solutions, citing defects in the design of the shooting range that increase the risk of fires due to inadequate cleaning and ventilation of combustible materials. This incident is not isolated; the family highlights prior documented instances of similar fires occurring in mobile shooting ranges operated by the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Furthermore, they point to violations concerning unsafe practices in the operation and maintenance of these ranges. Sheriff Robert Luna confirmed the quarterly requirement for officers to undergo firearms qualification in October 2023, indicating the danger inherent in the circumstances that contributed to Deputy Flores's injuries and subsequent death. The wrongful death lawsuit seeks injunctive relief aimed at preventing further operations of mobile gun ranges by the county, along with civil penalties to hold the responsible parties accountable. Deputy Flores had a 22-year career with the sheriff's department, serving in various capacities, and he leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife and four children. This case underscores the pressing need for accountability within law enforcement agencies and raises significant questions about safety protocols in training environments. The implications of this incident not only affect the family's quest for justice but also highlight broader issues regarding the maintenance and safety standards of training facilities utilized by law enforcement.