Los Angeles County medical examiner’s office confirms wildfire death toll rises to 16
SUMMARY
The death toll from the Los Angeles wildfires has risen to 16, according to the county medical examiner. Five deaths were caused by the Palisades Fire, while 11 resulted from the Eaton Fire. The fires, which have consumed 56 square miles and destroyed over 12,000 structures, continue to devastate the region. Authorities are using cadaver dogs for systematic searches, and a family assistance center has been established in Pasadena. Firefighters are battling to contain the flames amid warnings of strong Santa Ana winds, which have already fueled the destruction. The Palisades Fire threatens iconic sites, including UCLA, the Getty Museum, and the Hollywood Hills. Tens of thousands remain under evacuation orders, and additional evacuations were issued as the fire expanded northeast. No cause has been determined for the fires, but early estimates suggest damages could total $135–$150 billion, making this potentially the most expensive wildfire disaster in U.S. history.
