A ruptured pipeline in East Los Angeles spilled 24,654 gallons of crude oil into the Los Angeles River on May 22, 2026, causing environmental damage and economic harm. - The spill killed 27 birds and oiled 131 others, with 109 still in care.
- Businesses lost up to 75% of sales due to closures and lane restrictions. - County officials criticized the pipeline owner for initially underreporting the spill size.
- LA County is pursuing litigation to recover $50–100 million in cleanup costs. The incident has prompted calls for improved emergency communications and accountability.