The Watson family of Altadena is grappling with losing their home after last week’s devastating Eaton wildfire. Despite the destruction, their faith and strong community ties remain unshaken.
The Eaton wildfire tore through Altadena, displacing nearly all of its approximately 45,000 residents and reducing entire neighborhoods to ash. The fire destroyed over 7,000 structures, including homes, commercial buildings, and historic landmarks.
“We thought we were just leaving for a few days,” said Antonio Watson, the family patriarch, reflecting on their initial evacuation. Confident they would return; Antonio never imagined the fire would come close enough to threaten their home.
“There were three brush fires before this, none of which came within half a mile of the house. They just didn’t come anywhere close. So, I told my sons and my wife, ‘We will be back,’ and grabbed a few things from the safe. I think I took some emergency cash we had on hand,” Antonio explained.
“We just packed nonchalantly,” Antonio admitted. They left behind cherished items, including a brand-new BMW i9, sentimental keepsakes, and even essential belongings, believing they would return in a few days.
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Unable to rest, Antonio returned to the house later that night. As embers flew and thick smoke filled the air, he realized the gravity of the situation. Determined to protect their home, he stayed as long as possible, standing on the roof, dousing it with water, and reciting Scripture.
Eventually, the situation became too dangerous. When Antonio could no longer breathe or see, he knew he had to retreat. “It’s in God’s hands now,” he said.
With a heavy heart, he handed over the reins to his son Jacob, who quickly sprang into action by creating a GoFundMe to help the family rebuild. “We set the goal at $35,000,” Jacob explained, “and every contribution means so much to us.”
The Watsons’ roots in Altadena run deep. Antonio and his wife, Aubrey, bought their first home there over 30 years ago, forgoing a grand wedding to invest in a future together. That small house became the birthplace of their family. “The house is gone, but the home is here,” Antonio said. “It’s the family.”
The Watsons are determined to restore a sense of normalcy, prioritizing therapy and stable schooling for their three sons, Jacob, Alan, and David. Antonio, whose job as a logistics officer in Pasadena’s Emergency Operations Center involves aiding others in crises, remains resolute in his belief that “God has blessed us so we can be a blessing.”
Beyond their family, the Watsons are working to support their community, including members of the Altadena United Methodist Church, which also burned down. They are compiling resources and checklists to help others navigate the fire’s aftermath. While their home on Athens Street is gone, the Watson family’s enduring spirit remains.
To support the Watson family in their recovery, visit their GoFundMe page at gofundme.com/f/support-for-watson-family-lost-everything.
