An Altadena resident, already grappling with the aftermath of a devastating fire, found herself facing an additional financial challenge. Lisa Brounstein-Gaffney lost her home and possessions in the Eaton Fire, leaving her to rebuild her life from scratch. Amidst this overwhelming situation, she received an unexpected bill for the towing of her burned vehicle. The California Highway Patrol had moved the car to clear emergency access routes during the fire. Gaffney expressed deep frustration, highlighting the emotional toll of losing irreplaceable items and now dealing with unforeseen expenses.

The financial burden came as a shock when Gaffney's mail started arriving at her post office box. She was billed $587 for the initial tow and faced additional storage fees of $71 per day. Complicating matters further, Gaffney had already reported the 1998 Toyota Camry to her insurance company, which had taken over responsibility for the vehicle. Initially suspecting a tow-truck scam, she contacted authorities only to learn that the California Highway Patrol had authorized the towing to ensure road accessibility for utility workers. Fortunately, Gaffney’s insurance company eventually agreed to cover the costs.

In times of crisis, it is crucial for communities to come together and offer support. Gaffney emphasized the need for compassion and understanding, especially during such difficult periods. People often underestimate the emotional and financial strain experienced by those affected by disasters. LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s office encourages individuals in similar situations to seek assistance through the LA County Relief Fund, which provides financial aid to help residents recover from fire-related losses. This support underscores the importance of solidarity and empathy in rebuilding lives after tragedy.