Woman Attacks Firefighter and Crashes into Police Car

An Inglewood woman, identified as 36-year-old Jessica Chavez, was arrested Wednesday afternoon following an alleged assault on a firefighter from the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Eyewitness cell phone footage captured Chavez in a heated argument with the firefighter, who was attempting to de-escalate the situation. Despite the firefighter's efforts to calm her down, Chavez became increasingly aggressive, ultimately punching the side of the fire department's SUV and swinging at the firefighter. The incident unfolded around 12:20 p.m. after fire personnel responded to reports of Chavez being involved in a dispute near Manhattan Beach Boulevard and Marigold Avenue. Witness Frank Rojas described the scene, noting that Chavez was acting erratically and that the firefighter was merely trying to assist her. As tensions escalated, Chavez attempted to enter her vehicle, prompting the firefighter to follow her in an effort to ensure her safety. As the situation intensified, Gardena police detectives, who were passing by, intervened. However, Chavez fled the scene, leading to a brief pursuit. Video footage later showed her speeding down Manhattan Beach Boulevard before crashing into both an unmarked police car and the fire department SUV, leaving debris scattered on the roadway. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported. Chavez has been charged with multiple offenses, including assault on a firefighter or EMT, assault with a deadly weapon, and driving under the influence.