At Least 25 Dead as Wildfires Continue to Rage Across Los Angeles, Arson Investigations Underway

Palisades Fire

Wildfires have claimed at least 25 lives in Los Angeles County, with ongoing investigations into arson and more than 150 leads being pursued. (Wikimedia Commons)

As multiple wildfires continue to devastate the Los Angeles area, at least 25 lives have been lost due to the destructive fires, which have been fueled by severe drought conditions and strong winds. Thousands of firefighters are currently battling wildfires across 45 square miles of densely populated Los Angeles County, where over 82,000 people remain under mandatory evacuation orders. Another 90,000 individuals are under evacuation warnings, as the fires continue to spread.

In response to this tragedy, we are called to lift up in prayer all those affected by the fires: the victims, the brave first responders, and the communities displaced by the destruction. It is in times like these that we, as a Catholic community, should come together in solidarity and pray for those in harm’s way.

Two Arrested for Arson

In the midst of these devastating fires, two individuals were arrested for arson in separate incidents just outside the fire zone, as reported by the LAPD. On one occasion, a citizen extinguished a fire in a tree and detained the suspect, who later admitted to starting the fire because he “liked the smell of burning leaves.” In another incident, a suspect was arrested for setting trash on fire, saying she enjoyed causing “chaos and destruction” (ABC News, 2025). This callous disregard for human life serves as a reminder of the power of sin and the need for spiritual healing for those who act in ways that harm others.

Palisades Fire Investigation

Investigators continue to probe the causes of the Palisades Fire, which has left more than 150 leads to follow. Acting special agent in charge of the ATF Los Angeles Field Division, Jose Medina, shared that investigators are reviewing video from state-owned cameras, residents’ footage, and social media posts to determine the cause and progression of the blaze. They are also interviewing individuals who initiated the 911 calls and the first responders from the January 7th fire, as well as the earlier fire that started on January 1st (ABC News, 2025).

Medina appealed to hikers who may have been in the area near Skull Rock on the morning of January 7th to come forward with any information, noting that even if individuals saw or smelled nothing, “that too could be valuable information” (ABC News, 2025). As Catholics, we are reminded to be vigilant in our communities, to look out for one another, and to act as stewards of creation, protecting the environment and all who live in it.

A Call to Prayer

In the face of these overwhelming wildfires, we ask for the intercession of Our Lady of Sorrows, who knows the suffering and loss that so many are experiencing. May her maternal love bring comfort to those who mourn and strengthen those fighting to protect lives and property.

Let us also pray for those responsible for starting these fires, asking for their conversion and healing of hearts that are hardened by sin. In times of crisis, we must hold tightly to our faith and trust in God’s mercy, praying for peace in our hearts and our communities.

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