Los Angeles wildfires: federal investigation launched, strong winds exacerbate blaze

A federal investigation is underway to uncover the cause of the deadly wildfires that have ravaged Los Angeles, claiming at least 25 lives, displacing tens of thousands, and leaving destruction in their wake.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is leading the probe, supported by local law enforcement, the Forest Service, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The effort, involving around 75 specialists, will include fire investigators, chemists, electrical engineers, and sniffer dogs trained to detect accelerants.

The fires, named the Eaton and Palisades fires, have together consumed over 38,000 acres, making them the most destructive in Southern California’s history. The Eaton fire alone has claimed 17 lives, while eight perished in the Palisades fire.

Investigators are exploring various potential causes, including downed power lines, arson, stray fireworks, and the possibility of a reignited earlier blaze. “We know the community demands answers, and we are committed to conducting a thorough and transparent investigation,” said ATF spokesperson Jose Medina.

To gather clues, teams will analyse physical evidence, conduct interviews with witnesses, and monitor online leads.

Social media has been rife with theories about the fires’ origins. One video showing trail runners fleeing smoke above Pacific Palisades has sparked speculation, though one of the runners, Beni Oren, vehemently denied involvement. "It’s frustrating to see people pointing fingers at us when we were running for our lives," he told The Los Angeles Times.

In Altadena, some residents have filed lawsuits against Southern California Edison, alleging the fire originated near one of its electrical transmission towers. The utility has denied any fault, stating their equipment was not responsible.

The National Weather Service has issued warnings about strong Santa Ana winds, which could exacerbate the fires or reignite smoldering embers. Gusts of up to 110 km/h threaten to spread the blaze further, prompting officials to label parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties as “particularly dangerous.”

Dry vegetation and toxic ash add to the hazards, with health officials urging residents to wear masks to protect against respiratory harm.

The wildfires have displaced over 88,000 residents, many of whom remain unable to return to their homes. The economic toll is estimated between $250 billion and $275 billion, according to AccuWeather.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has issued orders to protect wildfire victims from predatory property deals and placed debris removal teams on standby. Meanwhile, golf legend Tiger Woods has pledged support for recovery efforts, expressing solidarity with affected communities and hinting at upcoming charitable initiatives.

As firefighters work to control the flames and investigators pursue answers, Los Angeles remains on edge, grappling with one of the most catastrophic disasters in its history.