The recent Eaton Fire devastated Altadena, leading to 17 confirmed deaths and destruction of around 9,400 structures. Many residents are left without homes and uncertain about their community's future. Evacuees vividly recall their frantic decisions on what to take before fleeing, often choosing items of sentimental value or utility over more valuable possessions. For instance, high school senior Pedro Rivera Carter thought to pack his homework instead of his guitar, while his mother prioritized her school books and a knitted scarf from her students. They, along with others in the community, face an uncertain path forward in rebuilding their lives.
I packed my homework, instead of anything valuable, to do it while I was away for a day, said Pedro, an 18-year-old high school senior.
'I looked at all my valuables and I was like, you know, that'd be really sad if I lost that... But I decided not to bring any of it.'
For those who lost their homes, the possessions they packed in the hurry to evacuate are now all they have from the time before the fire.
Residents worry whether the Altadena they knew can ever be rebuilt after the devastating Eaton Fire, which destroyed an estimated 9,400 structures.
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