Shari Shaw recounts the tragic discovery of her brother Victor, a 66-year-old man found holding a garden hose outside their family home in Altadena, California. The devastating wildfires that ravaged the area left entire blocks leveled and families devastated. Shari shares intimate details about Victor's life, his love for sports and history, and the challenges he faced due to health issues. She also describes the harrowing moments leading up to his untimely death, highlighting the chaos and uncertainty during the firestorm.

The Tragic Discovery Amidst the Flames

Shari vividly remembers the moment she realized her brother had perished in the inferno. As she approached the charred remains of their family home, the magnitude of destruction became apparent. Blocks of houses were reduced to ashes, leaving no trace of the once vibrant neighborhood. Upon reaching the property, Shari encountered a neighbor who had already discovered Victor's body amidst the debris. The emotional toll was immense as she broke down, unwilling to witness her brother in such a state.

Victor's body was found clutching a garden hose, likely an attempt to fight off the encroaching flames. Despite the neighbor's efforts to call out to him, it was clear that Victor had succumbed to the smoke and heat. Shari recalls the agonizing wait for authorities to confirm the identity of the body. For two days, her brother lay there, exposed to the elements. Eventually, a family member working with the sheriff’s department provided more details about how Victor was found. His remains showed signs of singeing but remained largely intact, suggesting he may have tried to flee or combat the fire. Ultimately, the cause of death was attributed to smoke inhalation.

A Life Remembered: Victor's Legacy and Final Moments

Shari paints a poignant picture of her brother, emphasizing his gentle nature and passion for sports. Victor was an avid follower of local teams and enjoyed exploring lesser-known routes, often navigating through L.A. with ease. In recent years, he battled health issues, including diabetes-related complications and kidney failure, which made him increasingly dependent on Shari's care. Despite these challenges, Victor maintained a positive outlook, always ready to take on new adventures.

On the fateful night of January 7th, as the fire raged around them, Shari rushed to Victor's home to gather essential documents and belongings. The intense winds and thick smoke made communication difficult, and when she finally reached him, Victor was reluctant to leave. As the situation worsened, Shari desperately tried to evacuate him, but the flames were relentless. Embers rained down, and visibility dropped drastically. Shari's last memory of that night is calling out to Victor, urging him to escape before it was too late. In the aftermath, she reflects on Victor's bravery and his futile attempt to save their home. To her, he will always be a hero, someone who fought until the end, even when the odds were insurmountable.