LA City Council Approves $21M Fireworks Settlement

The Los Angeles City Council has unanimously approved a $21 million settlement for residents affected by the LAPD's botched fireworks detonation in 2021, which injured 17 people and displaced around 80. The explosion, caused by overloading a containment vessel, damaged numerous homes, businesses, and vehicles in the South LA neighborhood. The settlement will be distributed among 19 claimants, with individual awards ranging from $100,000 to $2.8 million. Displaced residents have been living in a downtown hotel, with the city covering their expenses and extending their stay until February 2025. Councilmember Curren Price emphasized the prolonged trauma and disruption endured by the victims, stating the settlements are a crucial step towards their recovery. The settlement also includes funding for community support and continued housing assistance.