Max Baumgarten and Penelope Gazin experienced a devastating loss when their 1940s adobe home in Altadena, California, was completely destroyed by the Eaton Fire. Upon receiving a video from a neighbor showing the destruction, they were in shock. Baumgarten, an actor and musician, felt the urgent need to see the damage firsthand and rushed home, but the fire was still ongoing.
Despite previously visiting their home to retrieve items for their infant daughter without seeing any damage, they were met with a horrific scene upon returning. Baumgarten described the environment as surreal and apocalyptic, with the sky a smoky red and sounds of explosions around them. He found his home in ruins, noting that even the bed frame had melted and that he could not safely retrieve the one surviving safe as it was too hot to touch.
Interestingly, while their home was devastated, some nearby citrus trees remained healthy and full of fruit. Amidst the wreckage, Baumgarten discovered a cabin on their property that housed a crib their son had recently outgrown, a bittersweet token of the life they cherished.
Gazin, a designer and musician known for her unique clothing label, and Baumgarten had moved to Altadena in late 2020, looking for a creative space to raise their family. Their community included other notable individuals, such as cookbook authors and artists, all of whom also lost their homes in the fire.
The Eaton Fire, reported to have burned over 14,000 acres and destroyed more than 1,200 structures, was fueled by a combination of drought conditions and strong winds. Tragically, it claimed the lives of at least eight people. The community surrounding Altadena is noted for its diverse history and artistic environment, but it has also faced challenges, particularly related to housing and racial diversity.
In the aftermath of the fire, Baumgarten and Gazin expressed their heartbreak over the loss of their home and the community they loved, highlighting connections to local institutions that enriched their family life, including a preschool founded by a civil rights leader.In the aftermath of a devastating fire that destroyed cherished homes in Altadena, residents are grappling with loss and uncertainty. Amelia Sedano McDonald and her husband Max, who celebrated their wedding in their backyard, had strong ties to their community, which included close friends and local wildlife. McDonald expressed her disbelief at the destruction, reflecting on the house where she experienced significant life events, including her cancer diagnosis.
McDonald returned to her property to assess the damage after the fire, which took the lives of two of her goats. She recalled the chaotic moments leading up to the fire when she received alarming news about flames encroaching on her home. Although she attempted to evacuate in time, her worries centered on the safety of her animals and the lack of timely information during the crisis.
Many other residents shared similar harrowing experiences, laden with anxiety and the struggle to protect their homes and pets. As McDonald stayed with her goat Mel at a hotel, she expressed feelings of loneliness and fear about the future of the land she loves. Yet, amidst the despair, she exhibited resilience and hope for rebuilding the community.
Gazin, another member of the community, is facing her own uncertainties. As she prepares to showcase her fashion designs during New York Fashion Week, questions linger about whether she wants to rebuild her home. Yet she acknowledged the special nature of Altadena, hoping that it can become a thriving community again without losing its character.
In a poignant acknowledgment of loss, community member Baz shared a touching photo online of her child in what was their home before the fire. Despite the challenges, she expressed gratitude for the support of the community and a determination to rebuild and find stability in the future.