Perez Fights Wildfire Alone to Save His Home

 Perez Fights Wildfire Alone to Save His Home

A devastating wildfire has been raging across California for over a week, with flames consuming vast areas near Los Angeles. Authorities have evacuated hundreds of thousands of residents for safety. Yet, amidst the inferno in Eaton Canyon, one man refused to leave his home: Tristin Perez.

As the wildfire's flames crept dangerously close to his Altadena property, even scorching his fence, and thick smoke filled the air, Perez found himself unable to flee due to his immobilized legs. Despite the overwhelming odds, the 34-year-old carpenter chose to fight the fire single-handedly to save his home and his neighbors’ properties.

Perez, lacking a proper water hose, used two buckets to continuously douse the fire. He shared his harrowing experience with Reuters from his driveway:
“The fire reached my front yard, and palm trees were ablaze. It felt like a scene straight out of a movie. I did everything I could to stop the fire and save my home, along with my neighbors’ houses.”

Thanks to his efforts, Perez’s single-story yellow duplex and two neighboring homes survived. However, across the street, an entire house was reduced to ashes, leaving only a lone brick chimney standing amid the rubble.

Reflecting on the destruction, Perez said, “Looking at the other side of the street, I can’t help but think it could have been the same here if I hadn’t stayed. I feel so bad for them—it’s heartbreaking.”

Perez moved to Altadena three years ago, renting a two-bedroom unit in the community of about 40,000 people, which he describes as friendly and caring.

Officials reported on Saturday, January 11, that the Eaton Canyon fire was 15% contained, but the threat of wildfires across Los Angeles County remained high.

The fire, which started on January 7, has affected six areas around Los Angeles, claiming at least 24 lives and damaging or destroying over 12,000 structures.