The extent of the damage caused Fires in Southern California it is not clear why Santa Ana’s strong winds continue to fuel the flames, but at least one victim of the fires has been identified by his family.
Victor Shaw is among those who lost their lives, his sister Shari Shaw told ABC News that he died in a heroic attempt to protect his home in Altadena. The body of the 66-year-old man was found in front of the house, still holding a garden hose.
“I can’t imagine what she might have been thinking, how scared she might have been,” Shari Shaw said. “And I couldn’t be here, I couldn’t be here to save you. I couldn’t be here, that’s what hurts the most.”
Victor Shaw died defending his Altadena home from the Eaton fire, his family said.
The Shaw Family
Shaw had lived in the family home since 1965 and had health problems that affected his mobility.
Shaw had lived in the family home since 1965.
The Shaw Family
The Eaton fire broke out Tuesday in Altadena, north of Pasadena, and has grown to more than 13,000 acres. Up to 5,000 structures — including businesses and homes — have been damaged or destroyed, officials said.
Thousands of firefighters are battling the blazes and tens of thousands of residents have been forced to flee. At least five people are believed to be dead, with the LA County sheriff saying he expects that number to rise. Authorities have begun bringing in dead dogs to search for victims.
