One of the deadliest and most destructive wildfires in California occurred in Los Angeles on January 7, 2025. The Palisades and Eaton flames caused this wildfire to expand rapidly, and thousands and homes and structures have been destroyed. 

Members of the E.P.A. have already begun clearing up debris and poisonous items. Their first aim was to eliminate any lithium-ion batteries at risk of catching fire, and this project has benefited everyone more quickly and effectively. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers estimates that it will take eighteen months to clear everything, including burned trees, debris, and damages. 

This wildfire was so sudden that it struck many people’s lives. Some people feel vulnerable right now because of the destruction that has come upon them. There are no words to describe how horrifying the scene is and what people are currently going through. All hopes and prayers go to those in need.

One of our own social studies teachers, Mr. Chris O’Malley, lost his home during the Eaton fire, which primarily destroyed homes and businesses in Altadena. You can donate to his GoFundMe page HERE.

Mr. O’Malley has kindly shared his experiences from the night of January 7th. You can read his account below:

I decided to go outside my house to see the shift in the wind that was blowing over my neighborhood, after putting my child to bed at around eight o’clock. I decided to ask my neighbors if they were worried about the situation, after viewing the fire and the strength of the wind.

All of my thoughts were focused on the fire, its direction, and whether it would approach us. I told my wife to wake up our son, take our dogs, and pack a few more items just in case. Fortunately, we were able to leave before the fire approached. 

After that, we spent the night at my mother’s place. Even simply remaining there and witnessing the danger and severe growth of the fire could have been tragic.  When I checked the app I had set up with my home’s cameras the morning after the fire, I noticed that every smoke detector was activated. I was aware that we had lost our home.

Estimating how long my house had been collapsed took some time, but I have fire alarms [and] a Nest app, and I noticed smoke in my son’s room. All I could do was hope that my house might still be standing if there was smoke involved. My wife and I realized we had lost our house by Wednesday [January 8th].   

Thankfully, everyone left the house without incident. Along with all the books and photos that we would never have been able to replace, we also took all the critical paperwork we required. But now that I think about it, I do wish I had brought more items with me, like my son’s baby teeth, my first report card, my high school diaries, and other special mementos I still had. 

All of my students, past and present, have done so much for me since I returned. I was moved by a GoFund page created by one of my former students. A small number of my other pupils have brought me food and Dodgers bobbleheads, of which I possessed an extensive collection. It makes me feel better to know that I have individuals who are concerned about me and the circumstances.