Officials and witnesses reported that someone was discovered trapped in a California chimney after dancing on the roof and playfully slapping their pants.
A 31-year-old individual climbed onto the roof of the San Fernando Recreation Center, and while trying to squeeze into a small stone chimney, became stuck three feet deep inside it on Tuesday night.
“I saw a woman on the roof,” stated an observer named Israeli Olivas.
Another witness, identified as Ashley Alba, mentioned that the person was “trying to climb the chimney.”
“She was pulling her shirt and pants down, dancing on the roof. I looked again and saw her hands waving inside the chimney.”
The Los Angeles Fire Department arrived on the unusual scene around 7:30 pm and was recorded utilizing a rope system to rescue the individual from the chimney.
Footage captured by local news showed firefighters working to pull Alba out of the flue while she humorously flailed her legs.
Witness Jose Rivera shared his reaction, noting the absurdity of the situation. “It was kind of funny that she got there. She was joking, but then got stuck. After a while, it became clear that it was a serious situation.”
Residents mentioned that Alba is a local homeless woman who often frequents the area, and some speculated that she seemed intoxicated before becoming trapped.
One observer pointed out that her backpack had a nearly empty liquor bottle inside it.
Alba was taken to a nearby hospital in fair condition and has reportedly been charged with trespassing. Officials also indicated she is undergoing a 72-hour mental health assessment.
