CRIME & LAW

California Opens Civil Rights Probe Into Altadena Evacuations

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Los Angeles — The California Department of Justice opened a civil rights investigation this week into evacuation warnings and emergency response during the January 7, 2025 Eaton Fire, Attorney General Rob Bonta announced. The probe will assess whether race, age or disability discrimination delayed evacuation notices to West Altadena, a historically Black neighborhood that suffered the majority of deaths. Investigators from the Civil Rights Enforcement Section will review emergency preparations, timelines, and communications after survivors and community members raised concerns. The fire destroyed thousands of structures and killed at least 19 Altadena residents. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

January 7, 2025: Eaton Fire ignites and spreads through Altadena, causing fatalities and property loss.
Early January 2025: Evacuation notices reached east Altadena before west Altadena; homes were burning before some west-side notices arrived.
Months following: Survivors and community members pressured officials, reporting delayed warnings and disparate impacts.
This week: Attorney General Rob Bonta publicly announced a civil rights investigation into emergency response and evacuation timing.
Investigation ongoing: DOJ Civil Rights Enforcement Section will review communications, timelines, and potential race, age, or disability discrimination.