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  • The Daily Brief: ATF Sets Controlled Burn for Fire Investigation, DMV Solicits Input on Driverless Cars, and more.

The Daily Brief: ATF Sets Controlled Burn for Fire Investigation, DMV Solicits Input on Driverless Cars, and more.

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Good Afternoon! It’s Tuesday, April 29

The sun attempted to peak through the partly cloudy conditions today in Los Angeles with highs reaching 72°, with clouds forecast for tomorrow, we do have truly sunny conditions forecast for the end of the week.

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Courtesy of Michelle McPhee

ATF Conducts Controlled Burn in Pacific Palisades as Fire Investigation Heats Up

Months after a deadly wildfire tore through Pacific Palisades, the ATF will launch a controlled burn along Temescal Ridge Trail to help determine the blaze’s cause. The fire, which killed a dozen people and destroyed thousands of structures, is still under investigation—arson has not been ruled out. Authorities are also scrutinizing the arrest of an Oregon couple impersonating firefighters, including a man with a past arson conviction and a woman with expertise in atmospheric sciences.

Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images

California DMV Wants Your Input on Robotaxi Rules

Driverless cars are no longer a novelty on California roads—but how they’re regulated is still up for debate. The California DMV has opened a public comment period on new rules for autonomous vehicles, including robotaxis like Waymo and self-driving trucks. With concerns ranging from safety and first responder protocols to personal vehicle ownership, the agency is inviting public feedback through June 9. Want a say in how these cars operate in your city?

Virginia Giuffre, Epstein Survivor and Advocate, Dies by Suicide at 41

Virginia Giuffre, the most prominent survivor of Jeffrey Epstein’s sex trafficking ring and a tireless advocate for other victims, has died by suicide at her home in Australia. She was 41. Her family and attorney expressed shock at the news, noting she had recently survived a bus accident and appeared to be looking forward to the future. Giuffre’s death has prompted renewed calls for scrutiny and support surrounding survivors of long-term abuse.

Trump Pressures Amazon to Drop Plan to Display Tariff Costs

Amazon has scrapped internal plans to show U.S. import tariffs on product listings after President Trump personally intervened, calling the move “a hostile and political act.” The White House criticized the reported proposal, which Amazon claims was limited to a niche low-cost shopping section and never intended for the main site. The backlash highlights growing political tensions around transparency in global e-commerce pricing.

Long Beach Pride 2025 Ushers in Summer with “The Power of Community”

Get ready for a weekend of love, music, and celebration as Long Beach Pride returns May 17–18, 2025, for its 42nd annual festival. Honoring this year’s theme, “The Power of Community,” the event will feature live bands, dance battles, drag extravaganzas, cultural showcases, and safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and recovery groups. With a vibrant lineup of performances and community experiences, Long Beach Pride 2025 promises to kick off Pride season with unity, resilience, and unforgettable memories

Courtesy of @LucasGordonPhotography

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