Monterey Park officials apologize for not recognizing first responders

Monterey Park City manager Ron Bow apologized to the city’s fire department on Tuesday, saying he should have earlier acknowledged the role of the department’s first responders — and their pain — in responding to the Jan. 21 mass shooting.

“Our fire department took a back seat,” Bow said at a news conference Tuesday afternoon outside City Hall. “Trauma experienced by these first responders… could have lasting effects.”

The shooting at the Star Ballroom Dance Studio, which killed 11 and injured nine, hit firefighters hard, Chief Matt Hallock said, and the lack of recognition was felt.

“I can say – I don’t think the city manager would object – our boys felt like they didn’t exist,” Hallock said.

According to Hallock, 18 of his 51-strong squad responded to the shooting and helped save the lives of nine injured. His department spent much of this week helping his employees with mental recovery, he said.

“I have several paramedics who aren’t going back to work, and I don’t know if they’re going to go back to work,” Hallock said, choking. “I take care of each and every one of them.”

Recognition from the department and its staff is important to her recovery, Hallock said.

Ten days after one of the deadliest mass shootings in Southern California history, Monterey Park officials at the press conference also outlined some ways they plan to help the city and its residents recover.

Officials said they would work with the California Community Foundation and other nonprofit organizations to establish a city-backed support fund for victims, survivors and their families.

They also outlined several resources for residents, such as: B. Contact points and services in the Brüggemeyer library opposite the town hall. Advisors are also available weekdays this week at Langley Senior Center from 9am to 4pm