Pasadena Family Navigates Challenges a Year After the Eaton Fire
Mother and Son Exhibit Resilience Following Eaton Fire in Pasadena
PASADENA, Calif. — In the wake of the devastating Eaton Fire, which destroyed homes and claimed 19 lives, a mother and son from Pasadena are charting a path toward recovery. Totress Beasley and her son, Aaron Miller, are navigating the complex process of rebuilding while demonstrating remarkable resilience and hope.
The Eaton Fire, which blazed through the area a year ago, impacted many, including Beasley and Miller, who were forced to evacuate their home on Glen Street at 3 a.m. on January 7, 2025. Beasley had lived in the house for 12 years and had only recently paid off her mortgage. “When we evacuated, we left ten hours before the house burned down. We thought we would be back,” recalled Miller.
Unfortunately, their home was engulfed in flames shortly after their departure. Miller recounted the heart-wrenching moment he returned to find his residence ablaze. “I just remember having to sit there and watch the house burn down. The firefighter was standing next to me with an empty water hose in his hand. It was a bad situation. I took it really hard,” he said.
Miller, who operated a clothing and marketing business from the home, noted that he contemplated rushing inside to retrieve his belongings. “I actually opened the door and saw the fire coming quickly. I’m glad I didn’t go inside,” he stated.
Beasley described the surreal experience of witnessing the destruction. "When I arrived, everyone was outside watching my house burn. I was numb; I couldn’t really have an emotion because what could you do?" she reflected.
Since the fire, Beasley and Miller have faced multiple challenges. Although Beasley received some funds from their insurance company, Liberty Mutual, she remains unsure if it will cover all rebuilding expenses. “I’m trying to ensure I have enough finances to get the house that I want without taking on a mortgage again,” she explained.
Miller expressed frustration with navigating the process to secure aid. “They say one per household, but we are technically two households,” he pointed out, highlighting the bureaucratic hurdles they face.
Pedro Pizarro, the president and CEO of Edison International, has publicly stated that their equipment is “likely” responsible for the Eaton Fire. “The process to receive resources from their company is confusing,” Miller noted. “If you’re frustrated, you might not pursue help, which means missing out on benefits.” He further emphasized that residents in Pasadena might feel overlooked in recovery discussions.
Currently, Beasley has submitted her plans for rebuilding to the city of Pasadena, but has faced several rounds of necessary changes as she awaits approval. “I’m hopeful it will pass so we can do groundbreaking and get started,” she said.
Living temporarily with her other son, Beasley remains committed to her home. “I know this house is not for sale, and none of my neighbors are going to sell. We will all come back together,” she stated. Despite the challenges, Beasley is grateful for small salvaged treasures, such as albums containing precious memories of her son’s milestones, although some jewelry was lost to looters.
As they await the green light to rebuild, Beasley and Miller are actively seeking support to help facilitate their recovery.
