Six months after the devastating Eaton Fire ripped through Altadena, the community held a vigil in honor of the 18 lives that were lost to the disaster.
Speeches were shared and portraits of those who died in the blaze were displayed Monday as the community remembered the victims who were killed by the fire in January. A somber prayer vigil was held on the six-month anniversary of the fire.
“We remember that these individuals have a story, these individuals were a part of this community and some building this community,” said Pastor Anthony McFarland. “So, we give life and voice to who they are, who they were to this community as a community coming together on this day.”
The names of the 18 individuals who died in the fire were read aloud. Loved ones of the deceased then shared stories of those who passed.
“She was a lover of God, a bus driver. She was a quiet person who kept to herself and was just living life,” Zaire Calvin said of his sister, 59-year-old Evelyn McClendon.
The vigil was held as a means to help the community grieve as they continue processing their loss.
“We remember those whose lives were taken and we lift up the families and loved ones who now grieve their absence,” said Pastor Mary Ann Harrison. “Be with all of us during these times of sorrow and grief.”