Eaton Fire Continues to Tear Through Homes Within Hours of Dispatch
ALTADENA (CNS) – A brush fire in Eaton Canyon exploded to over 10,000 acres Wednesday, claiming five lives, destroying hundreds of structures, and forcing mass evacuations. Reported around 6:20 p.m. Tuesday near Altadena Drive and Midwick Drive, the fire grew rapidly due to strong Santa Ana winds and was 0% contained by Wednesday morning.
Los Angeles County officials reported between 200 and 1,000 structures damaged or destroyed, with over 32,500 residents evacuated, including those in Pasadena, Altadena, and La Cañada Flintridge. The fire also destroyed landmarks such as the Pasadena Jewish Temple & Center, Eaton Canyon Nature Center, and Altadena Golf Course Club House.
Five fatalities were confirmed, though details were unavailable. Numerous injuries occurred, often among residents who ignored evacuation orders. Looting arrests were also reported, with three suspects in custody.
Evacuation centers were established at locations including Pacific Community Center in Glendale and Arcadia Community Center. Entire neighborhoods in Altadena, Pasadena, and Arcadia were evacuated, as were parts of La Cañada Flintridge and Glendale.
The fire, initially named the Close Fire and later renamed the Eaton Fire, spread overnight as erratic winds grounded aerial firefighting efforts. Flights resumed Wednesday morning. Crews prioritized saving lives, evacuating seniors from a care facility and protecting hazardous chlorine gas stored by Pasadena Water and Power.
Governor Gavin Newsom secured federal assistance to combat the blaze, which taxed already stretched firefighting resources battling other Southland fires, including the Pacific Palisades fire. Schools in multiple districts, including Pasadena, Glendale, and Burbank, were closed through the week.
Residents shared stories of loss, such as Lisa Brounstein, who lost her century-old Altadena home. “It feels surreal,” she said, recounting the devastation.
Emergency crews remain on high alert as the fire continues to threaten thousands of structures. Classes have been canceled in affected districts, and additional evacuations may be required as conditions evolve.
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