LOS ANGELES — The devastating wildfires that swept through parts of Los Angeles approximately three months ago have claimed the lives of 30 individuals, according to recent official reports. The fires left thousands of homes in ruins, with the community still coming to terms with the loss.
On Wednesday, the Medical Examiner’s Office responded to a report indicating the discovery of potential human remains at a burnt property in Altadena, found within the Eaton Fire’s destruction path. Upon investigation, the remains were confirmed to be human, raising the death toll from the Eaton Fire to 18. Additionally, 12 fatalities were attributed to the Palisades Fire.
The identification process for charred remains is intricate, as explained by the medical examiner’s office. The process involves comparing dental records and DNA, reviewing health documentation, and using radiographs to detect any medical prosthetics or devices. The office collaborates closely with law enforcement to collect data on missing persons.
“Given the complexity of these procedures, confirming the identity of the deceased in such cases can be a lengthy process,” the office’s statement highlighted.
Fueled by powerful winds, the two fires erupted on January 7, leading to the destruction of nearly 17,000 structures, including homes, educational institutions, businesses, and places of worship. Efforts to reconstruct these areas are expected to span several years.
The exact causes of these catastrophic fires remain under investigation. However, numerous lawsuits have been filed, alleging that Southern California Edison’s utility equipment was responsible for igniting the Eaton Fire. Pedro Pizarro, president of Edison International—the parent company—stated that while the role of electrical infrastructure is being assessed, it remains uncertain if their equipment was the cause.
Pizarro expressed, “Our investigation is ongoing, and we have committed to maintaining transparency with the public as we strive to uncover the truth behind the ignition of the Eaton Fire.”