LOS ANGELES, CA – A veteran Los Angeles Fire Department captain and his family are grappling with the devastating loss of their home after the Eaton Fire tore through their Altadena neighborhood, leaving behind little more than ashes and memories.
Captain Al Hugo, who has dedicated 32 years to the LAFD, had lived in his Altadena home with his wife, Carmen, for two decades. The couple, along with their four dogs, evacuated on January 7 as the fast-moving Eaton Fire encroached on their neighborhood. Although Hugo had experienced wildfire threats before, this was the first time flames reached his community.
The next day brought devastating news—their home was among the countless structures consumed by the inferno. “It was surreal,” Hugo said. “It’s painful because you’ve [spent] a lot of time there. I’ve been there for 20 years, so I got a lot of memories and a lot of mementos that we lost. But I’m just thankful that my family and my pets are good.”
While Hugo and his fellow firefighters were saving lives and battling flames across Los Angeles County, his own family lost everything. Despite the heartbreak, Hugo expressed gratitude that his family emerged unscathed and is urging others to come together to help fire victims in need.
“My story is not unique; we’re one of many,” Hugo said. “We’re proud, but we need help—not just myself, but everyone else.”
Hugo also highlighted the resilience of the Altadena community, noting the outpouring of support from neighbors and friends who are stepping up to assist one another during the crisis. “The city’s resilient,” he said. “It’s a close-knit community, and we’re going to stick together. And from what I’ve heard from the people I’ve talked to, they want to rebuild.”
The Hugo family’s connection to firefighting runs deep. Hugo’s twin brother works as a firefighter for Los Angeles County, and his youngest son serves with the Los Angeles Fire Department. Despite the immense challenges ahead, Hugo’s commitment to his community remains unwavering.
To help the Hugo family rebuild, a GoFundMe page has been set up, offering a way for others to lend support as they navigate their recovery.
As of Tuesday night, the Eaton Fire had burned 14,117 acres and was 35% contained, according to Cal Fire. The blaze, which ignited on the same day as the Palisades Fire, has caused widespread destruction across Los Angeles County. Combined, the two fires have claimed at least 25 lives and damaged or destroyed more than 7,000 homes and structures.
Authorities continue to battle the fires as high winds and dry conditions persist, leaving many communities bracing for further challenges. Even as the flames rage on, the determination of individuals like Hugo and the solidarity of the Altadena community serve as a testament to the resilience of those affected by this unprecedented disaster.
