Fire destroys family home and kills trapped dog

PASADENA, CA – A devastating fire swept through a historic Pasadena neighborhood on Tuesday afternoon, destroying a family home that had been cherished for generations. The blaze, which erupted around midday, claimed the life of the family’s beloved English bulldog, Roxy, and left ten residents without homes. Firefighters are currently investigating the origin of the fire, which quickly spread to several nearby homes.

The fire was first noticed by neighbors who urgently alerted Alex and his wife, prompting them to flee their home on Bell Street. “I could see the smoke from the freeway,” Alex recounted, still visibly shaken by the experience. As the flames intensified, the couple managed to save two of their dogs, Pina and Pumpkin, but were unable to locate Roxy in time.

The fire’s rapid spread affected multiple properties with extensive damage reported to at least six structures. Each of these properties housed several families, amplifying the impact of the disaster. Alex’s family home, where he had been born and raised, was among those severely damaged. “I was actually born in the back house,” he said, reflecting on the loss of a place filled with cherished memories.

Pasadena firefighters are diligently working to determine the cause of the fire, focusing on the middle section of the properties where the blaze is believed to have originated. Despite the heartbreaking loss, Alex remains hopeful for the future. “Our hope is to rebuild,” he shared, expressing a desire to restore what was lost.

The community is rallying around those affected, offering support and temporary shelter to the displaced families. The local fire department is also coordinating efforts to assist those in need, ensuring that everyone has a safe place to stay during this difficult time.

As investigations continue, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that might aid in uncovering the fire’s cause. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community and resilience in the face of adversity.

The family, along with their neighbors, is determined to rebuild and preserve the historic character of their neighborhood. While the road to recovery may be long, the strength and unity of the Pasadena community provide a beacon of hope amid the ashes.