Despite spotlight on Palisades, Altadena sees win for post-fire justice - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Grace Toohey

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Los Angeles firestorm of January 2025 devastated thousands of homes and lives across Pacific Palisades and Altadena. While the national spotlight has focused heavily on Pacific Palisades, particularly due to celebrity involvement and political rhetoric, the historically Black, working-class community of West Altadena has faced systemic neglect and injustice in the aftermath. Despite their significant losses—19 lives lost within a two-square-mile area—and failures in emergency response, including delayed evacuation alerts and a lack of fire trucks, officials have yet to fully address these issues or take responsibility. For months, West Altadena residents felt overlooked as wealthier areas like Pacific Palisades received prompt attention and resources. This disparity was highlighted by investigative reports revealing the stark inequalities in fire response, which disproportionately impacted marginalized communities. However, a major turning point occurred this month when California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced a civil rights investigation into the L.A. County’s preparation and response to the Eaton fire, with a focus on the historic injustices faced by West Altadena. This decision was driven by relentless activism from residents and community groups like Altadena for Accountability, who demanded accountability and recognition of their suffering. The investigation marks a significant victory in the fight against systemic inequities, offering hope that marginalized communities can achieve justice even in the face of overwhelming challenges. While L.A. County officials claim no evidence of discrimination or bias has been found in previous reviews, residents remain committed to ensuring their voices are heard and their experiences validated. The case highlights the broader struggle for equity in emergency response systems, particularly for historically underserved communities. As the nation grapples with issues of systemic inequality and accountability, West Altadena’s story serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized groups, even in times of crisis. This investigation not only addresses past failures but also sets a precedent for more inclusive and just disaster response efforts.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/22/2026