Authorities are investigating a popular hiking trail in LA where a wildfire ignited on New Year’s Day, raising concerns about its origins.
Cops, federal agents, and scientists are all on the scene, checking out the area near Skull Rock. They’ve even closed off a cul-de-sac with caution tape to keep things secure while they dig deeper.
The ATF is leading the charge, looking for links between this fire and a smaller one that flared up just minutes into 2025. They’re going through video footage from locals to see if they can find any clues.
Interestingly, both fires started in nearly the same spot, which connects to trails in the Santa Monica Mountains. Residents had shared videos of flames from the first fire, and some were worried that fireworks might have sparked it.
Just six days later, folks reported seeing flames in the same area again. One neighbor even pointed out that it was the “same spot!!” right before the official start time for the Palisades Fire.
Experts are considering whether this could be a “possible reignition” from the earlier fire, but one retired ATF agent thinks it’s unlikely since they were days apart.
Investigators are on the lookout for any signs of how the fire started, like cigarette butts or lighter fluid. They’ve got dogs sniffing around for any traces of flammable materials.
As of now, multiple fires are still burning in LA, causing significant damage and loss. The Palisades Fire, along with others, has led to tragic consequences, including loss of life and destruction of homes. It’s a tough situation for everyone involved.
