Los Angeles, CA – Los Angeles authorities have enforced curfews and deployed National Guard troops to combat looting in wildfire-evacuated neighborhoods. The Palisades and Eaton fires, which began Tuesday, have forced over 150,000 residents to flee their homes.
Officials confirmed at least 10 deaths and the arrests of 20 individuals for looting abandoned properties. Sheriff Roger Luna denounced the looting as “unacceptable” and emphasized that military patrols aim to deter further crimes.
The curfew will remain in place from 6 p.m. Friday to 6 a.m. Saturday in neighborhoods impacted by the wildfires. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department urged evacuees to stay away from dangerous areas, citing downed power lines and damaged gas infrastructure. In a statement posted on X, the department said, “Help us maintain safety by avoiding rescue situations so we can focus on patrols.”
Mayor Karen Bass announced the National Guard’s deployment and a strict “zero tolerance” policy for trespassing and looting. “We will not allow anyone to exploit this disaster,” Bass said on Thursday.
President Joe Biden assured Californians of federal assistance and approved Governor Gavin Newsom’s request for a major disaster declaration. This action unlocks immediate cash aid for essential supplies like food and baby formula. “We will provide every resource to help you recover,” Biden said Friday.
As crews battle the wildfires, officials stress the importance of safety and community resilience during the ongoing crisis.
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