Fire disaster in Los Angeles: Deaths and looting in the reflection of the flames

Fire disaster in Los Angeles: Deaths and looting in the reflection of the flames

Los Angeles, Kalifornien, USA - massive destruction by devastating forest fires keep Los Angeles in suspense. On the western edge of the city, the flames of the "Palisades Fire" rage, which has devastated almost 96 square kilometers and is currently 14 percent contained. In addition to this fire, the fire brigade also fights against the "Eaton Fire" near Pasadena, which is already 33 percent under control. The confirmation of deaths has increased to 24, while people continue to be missing. Kristin Crowley, the head of the fire brigade of Los Angeles, urges: "The danger is not over" because there is a "Red Flag" warning of strong winds and extreme fire. Governor Gavin Newsom has meanwhile announced additional financial support of at least $ 2.5 billion for reconstruction, such as ABC Action News

legal measures against looters

In the middle of the crisis situation, the public prosecutor's office of Los Angeles has brought a lawsuit against alleged looters. Against ten suspects, indictment was raised who had illegally gained access to houses in evacuation zones. Among them are a couple that are said to have captured the thieves worth over $ 200,000 - they could cost their criminal records up to long prisoners in the event of a conviction. Another man was charged with arson after trying to light a tree in a park, which could cost him for nine years in prison, such as vienna.at

For those affected and owners who want to advance the reconstruction, Newsom uses an executive decree to accelerate the process by removing two building permits, which could shorten the approval time from normally three to six months to just a few weeks. In addition, measures are taken to prevent price increases in building materials and services by January 2026. According to his statement, the government hopes that these measures have more faster and more effective reconstruction, but challenges in processing insurance claims that could delay the process could arise.