A 67-year-old amputee, Anthony Mitchell, and his son Justin, who had cerebral palsy, tragically died in the Los Angeles wildfires. Anthony, a wheelchair user, stayed behind to protect his son. “He was not going to leave his son behind, no matter what,” said his daughter, Hajime White. Their bodies were found in Altadena after they failed to escape the flames.
The fires have claimed at least 10 lives, with officials warning the toll may rise as identification continues. The LA medical examiner stated that dental records and DNA are being used due to the condition of the remains. Sheriff Robert Luna emphasized the challenges for emergency crews, citing ongoing spot fires and gas leaks.
Among the victims was Victor Shaw, 66, who died trying to save his family home of 55 years. His sister, Shari, recalled pleading with him to evacuate. “When I went back in and yelled his name, he didn’t reply, and I had to save myself.” Similarly, Rodney Nickerson, 82, perished after choosing to stay in his Altadena home, believing the fire would pass.
The wildfires have destroyed over 34,000 acres, becoming the most destructive in LA’s history. Several celebrities, including Anthony Hopkins and Paris Hilton, lost their homes. As searches continue, officials urge patience, with the sheriff warning, “The true devastation will take time to uncover.”
