Local Voices

Long Beach Unions Say Ambulance Crash Highlights Staffing Shortage

Just before 5:20 a.m., as the ambulance was responding to a call, it slammed into a power pole, a crosswalk sign and a wall.

(KCAL News)

April 5, 2023

An early morning Sunday crash involving a Long Beach ambulance driver falling asleep at the wheel and crashing into a power pole has prompted two Long Beach employee unions to act.

Find out what's happening in Long Beachfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"It takes, unfortunately, a tragedy or a potential tragedy for a light to be shined on this and to get people to act," said Rex Pritchard, president of Long Beach Firefighters Association Local 372.

Just before 5:20 a.m., as the ambulance was responding to a call, it slammed into a power pole, a crosswalk sign and a wall. The driver and the other fire department employee in the ambulance suffered minor injuries.

Find out what's happening in Long Beachfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

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