Nothing but Ashes: Couple Heartbroken After Eaton Fire Destroys Home on 62nd Wedding Anniversary
A Devastating Loss
One Altadena couple is heartbroken and still processing the loss of their beloved home in the Eaton Fire, which happened to occur on their 62nd wedding anniversary. Herman and Juanita Landry are two of the many thousands who lost everything in the fire, which has claimed the lives of 15 people, destroyed over 7,000 structures, and burned more than 14,000 acres since erupting last week.
A Heartbreaking Reality
The couple spoke with KTLA on Tuesday morning after firefighters escorted them through the remains of their neighborhood on Monday. “I’m heartbroken, it’s heartbreaking,” Juanita said. “It was like being in a war zone,” Herman added. “Nothing but ashes…it seemed like some of the trees did not burn, but all of the home was flat. The things that you see in the movies, that’s what it was like.”
A Disastrous Anniversary
The pair were celebrating their 62nd anniversary on the day they had to flee from their home with nothing but the clothes on their backs. “It made [the fire] even worse,” Juanita said. “We had plans to do something better than that, of course…a celebration.”
A New Normal
Herman, a retired police officer, and Juanita, who used to work for the Los Angeles Dodgers, have been staying at a hotel since the blaze destroyed their residence and all of their precious possessions. They know the situation is temporary, but like many others affected by the wildfire, they are faced with the challenge of finding a new home. “Right now, we’re shopping for a place to stay; some place to rent out, and we’ll go from there,” Herman said through tears. “We don’t have exactly a place we want to rent, but we’re still looking.”
A Community in Need
FEMA has opened disaster recovery centers in the Los Angeles area to assist those affected by the fire. Firefighters have also been working tirelessly to contain the blaze, with many offering behind-the-scenes looks at their heroic battle.
A GoFundMe Page
A video posted by their granddaughter telling the story of her grandparents’ tragic experience has gone viral, and a GoFundMe has been set up to help the couple recover from the fire. A link to donate can be found here.
Conclusion
The Eaton Fire has left a trail of devastation, and for Herman and Juanita Landry, it has also taken away their home and their sense of security. As they navigate the challenges of rebuilding their lives, they are grateful for the support of their community and the kindness of strangers.
FAQs
* What is the current situation with the couple’s home?
The couple’s home was destroyed in the Eaton Fire, and they are currently staying at a hotel.
* What is their plan for the future?
The couple is looking for a new place to rent and will go from there.
* Are they considering taking legal action against SoCal Edison?
Herman is still deciding whether to take legal action, saying he needs more information before making a decision.
Note: The couple’s granddaughter’s video has gone viral, and a GoFundMe page has been set up to help the couple recover from the fire. A link to donate can be found here.
