Los Angeles County medical examiner's office reports

16 Dead, 13 Missing as Palisades and Eaton Fires Scorch 37,000 Acres in Los Angeles

Jan 12, 2025, 07:57 AM

Wildfires ravaging Los Angeles County have resulted in at least 16 deaths, with 13 people reported missing, the county medical examiner's office confirmed. The fires, including the Palisades Fire, which has burned nearly 24,000 acres, and the Eaton Fire, which is 11% contained, have collectively destroyed more than 12,000 structures and scorched over 37,000 acres. The Palisades Fire has caused five deaths. With 150,000 residents under evacuation orders, firefighters are racing to contain the blazes before the anticipated return of strong Santa Ana winds, which could exacerbate the situation by spreading flames toward densely populated neighborhoods, including Brentwood, Encino, and the San Fernando Valley. Authorities warn that the death toll may rise, and additional areas may need to be evacuated as the fires continue to spread.