Reuters video
Far from Hollywood’s wealth, Los Angeles fire survivors feel neglected
Story: “Pasadena Fire Chief needs to be fired…I’ll go back to the question of how there weren’t enough people on the ground.” In the Los Angeles suburb of Altadena, lifelong resident Aleta Johnson returns to the charred remains of her home after it was destroyed by wildfires. While the destroyed celebrity neighborhoods near Malibu captured the world’s attention, this economically and racially diverse community suffered greatly. Johnson believes her neighborhood, where generations of black and Latino families have lived, has been neglected by authorities. “I wish they would have been honest and told us we would have been alone. Maybe I could have saved my house. Maybe my neighbors, we could have gotten together. We could have saved all our homes. I know this might be the case, but it might not be the case in reality. Several Altadena residents told Reuters they were unable to see any firefighters as they fled their burning neighborhood. Those who lost their homes here worry that the income gap dividing Malibu and Altadena will determine which neighborhood gets priority when it comes time to return and rebuild. They fear that their lost home insurance payments will not cover the cost of rebuilding the properties they bought on the cheap. From decades ago…which means it could be priced out of Altadena if restored. Like many, Jess Willard III lived here most of his life — and returned to the ruins of his home to try to salvage some of his possessions. “My mom bought this house. I moved here when I was in eighth grade — when I was 13. 12 or 13 years old. I’m 61 now. And my kids, they’ve all lived here recently.” As the death toll continues to rise, wildfires ravage Sweeping through Los Angeles, nearly 10,000 buildings…burned for its third night on Thursday. “There is no evidence. There is no book.” The Los Angeles County Fire Department did not respond to a request for comment on Altadena residents’ complaints.