East Valley Family Pleads for Support After Devastating 58-Year-Old Home Lost to California Fires

SAN TAN VALLEY, Ariz. — A family is seeking assistance after losing their home of 58 years to recent California wildfires.

Brenna Elias reported that her family residence in Altadena, northeast of Los Angeles, was destroyed on January 8. Both her grandfather and cousin were living in the house at the time.

“Everything was just gone,” Elias stated, reflecting on the devastating loss. An aunt rushed to help them evacuate, as both her grandfather and cousin require dialysis. Unfortunately, the situation turned perilous.

“My grandpa fell and broke three ribs. Trees had fallen, blocking their escape route,” Elias recounted. They managed to flee with only the clothes on their backs and the ashes of family members.

According to Elias, her grandfather is struggling to comprehend the enormity of their loss, frequently asking if items can be retrieved from the home that no longer exists.

Her father, Jared Bell, emphasized the emotional toll the fire has taken on his father, Errol Tate, who is already grieving the recent loss of his wife and daughter. “It’s heartbreak for me. I’m trying to give him strength,” Bell said, urging his father not to lose hope.

Shannon Bell, Elias’ mother, noted the dedication her father-in-law had to improving their family home as a building inspector. “He added onto that home for years,” she said, highlighting the memories tied to each improvement.

To support their efforts to rebuild, the family has established a GoFundMe campaign. “My grandpa hasn’t even seen it yet,” Elias mentioned. “The thought of him not living to see it rebuilt is terrifying.” Time feels especially critical for their family at this juncture.