As the Eaton Fire ravaged through Altadena, one man's determination and courage stood out amidst the chaos. Antonio Antonetti, a 66-year-old resident, made a bold decision to stay behind and protect his home, ultimately saving seven homes in the process.
Antonetti recounted receiving calls from concerned friends urging him to evacuate as the fire approached. However, his resolve to safeguard his property was unwavering. 'I can't lose my house. I don't have family that can bail me out,' he expressed.
Despite witnessing the fire inch closer to his neighborhood, Antonetti refused to leave. Along with two other neighbors, all in their 60s, he devised a plan to combat the flames. They strategically moved from house to house, extinguishing embers and creating a perimeter to prevent further spread of the fire.
One key element of Antonetti's plan was to ensure that water hoses were readily available in each neighbor's home. This proactive measure proved instrumental in their firefighting efforts.
As the fire intensified, Antonetti's quick thinking and bravery were put to the test. He described how they tackled the flames, focusing on preventing the fire from reaching the houses by targeting yards and fences first.
Despite facing challenges such as a temporary water cut-off and the threat of looters, Antonetti remained resolute in his mission to protect the neighborhood. He successfully defended his property and intervened when looters attempted to exploit the situation.
Antonetti's actions did not go unnoticed, as law enforcement promptly responded to secure the area and prevent further incidents. His selfless acts of heroism and dedication to his community serve as a testament to the resilience and spirit of Altadena residents in the face of adversity.
