Honoring, L.A. Department of Recreation and Parks Captain Albert E. Torres

Posted on 10/13/2026

Today we honor and remember L.A. Department of Recreation and Parks Captain Albert E. Torres, who suffered a fatal heart attack while patrolling areas affected by the Saddleridge Fire on this day in 2019.

Torres had completed a 14-hour shift patrolling parks and remote areas in the San Fernando Valley evacuation zone. He reported back to the command center at Hansen Dam before returning to park headquarters in Griffith Park.

After telling fellow rangers he did not feel well, he collapsed. He was transported to a local hospital, where he died the following morning.

During his 40 years of service, Torres had worked virtually every position in the Park Rangers Department. He also helped create the citywide unit focused on homeless outreach and cleanup.

Career and Service: Captain Torres served the City of Los Angeles for 45 years total (starting in March 1974 as an occupational trainee and joining the Park Ranger Division in 1984), working in nearly every position in the department and ascending to Captain in 2001. He also helped establish the citywide unit focused on homeless outreach and cleanups.

Passing: He suffered a fatal heart attack on October 11, 2019, after completing a 14-hour shift patrolling parks and remote areas in the San Fernando Valley evacuation zone during the Saddleridge Fire. After reporting back to the command center and telling fellow rangers he felt unwell, he collapsed and passed away the following morning at a hospital.

Legacy: He was widely recognized for his extensive knowledge of the city's parks, wildlife, and equestrian community (having served in the mounted unit), as well as his dedication to public service and mentorship.

He was survived by his wife, daughter and son. We Angelinos from every corner of the City express our deepest, respect-filled condolences to Captain Torres's Family, and to the Rangers of Los Angeles City Parks & Recreation