Los Angeles County Fire Department's USA-02 Urban Search and Rescue Team will arrive back in Los Angeles on Thursday, August 20, 2026, after completing a deployment in Colombia following a deadly earthquake that struck the country the previous week. The ten‑member team, which includes seven fire department experts and three structural specialists, is returning after providing assistance with recovery operations.
The deployment was organized at the request of the U.S. State Department, which sent the LACoFD unit to support Colombian authorities in the immediate aftermath of the quake. While in Colombia, the team worked alongside local responders to assess damaged structures, locate survivors, and help stabilize hazardous conditions. Their expertise in urban search and rescue contributed to ongoing efforts to address the significant loss of life and widespread property damage caused by the earthquake.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works coordinated logistical support for the mission, ensuring that equipment and supplies were available for the team’s work abroad. The department also managed the team's return, arranging transportation and debriefing procedures as the specialists prepare to resume their regular duties within Los Angeles County.
The mission underscores the county's role in international disaster assistance, demonstrating the capacity of local emergency services to respond to crises beyond U.S. borders. The State Department’s decision to deploy the LACoFD unit reflects a broader U.S. commitment to aid nations affected by natural disasters.
As the team lands back in Los Angeles, the ten members will undergo standard post‑deployment health checks and debriefings. Their experience in Colombia will be reviewed by county officials to inform future training and response strategies. The LACoFD team remains on standby for any additional assignments that may arise, both domestically and internationally.