A video has emerged capturing the harrowing evacuation of a California couple as they fled the Eaton Fire, a blaze that has wreaked havoc on thousands of structures in Los Angeles County. The footage provides a glimpse into the heart-pounding 34 minutes that Jeffrey Ku and his wife Cheryl endured while hastily escaping their residence in Altadena on January 7, as flames encroached from afar, as reported by Storyful. The ordeal was described as a moment of “pure terror” for Ku, who feared he might never return to his cherished home.
The video, partially recorded by a doorbell camera, was shared by Ku on Instagram, where it quickly amassed nearly 35 million views as of Wednesday afternoon. Ku’s caption reflected the chaos of the evacuation, stating, “Winds gusting, no electricity, we grabbed what we could.” He recounted filming the advancing fire in between trips to their car, emphasizing the rapid deterioration of conditions. By the time they departed, the air was choked with smoke, embers swirled around them, and the sky glowed an ominous orange hue.
Amidst the chaos, Ku’s wife implored him to witness the fire creeping closer to their home on the hillside. In the video, Ku’s anxious voice can be heard rejecting her suggestion, pleading, “Please, God, save us, save our house.” Before their departure, Ku is depicted dousing his roof with water, a last-ditch effort to protect their property. As the video neared its end, he bid a poignant farewell to their beloved abode, though he later clarified in the Instagram caption that their home “still stands.”
Expressing solidarity with those who suffered losses, Ku extended his sympathy to friends and neighbors who were not as fortunate. He lamented the devastation inflicted upon their community and the broader Los Angeles area by the relentless blaze. Grateful for the unwavering dedication of first responders and volunteers battling the wildfires, Ku commended their heroic efforts in assisting those in distress.
In the face of adversity, Ku’s account serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and unity displayed in times of crisis. Amidst the turmoil of the Eaton Fire, the courage and compassion exhibited by individuals like Ku and his wife highlight the unwavering spirit of community in overcoming calamity.
Taylor Ardrey, reporting for USA TODAY, contributed to this article. For inquiries, contact tardrey@gannett.com.
Originally published on USA TODAY: Video captures California couple’s daring escape from Eaton Fire
