Thursday, February 12, 2026

Barger Backs State Review of Eaton Fire Response in West Altadena

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger said she supports Attorney General Rob Bonta’s announcement of a state investigation into the emergency response to the Eaton Fire in West Altadena, issuing a statement that called for full cooperation and close examination of residents’ concerns.

“I welcome Attorney General Bonta’s investigation into the emergency response to the Eaton Fire and expect our County departments to fully cooperate,” Barger said in the statement.

She said the concerns raised by residents of West Altadena “deserve to be taken seriously and examined thoroughly.” Barger also noted that she initiated an independent After?Action Review led by the McChrystal Group “to scrutinize the County’s actions and identify what worked, what didn’t, and where improvements are needed.” She added that she has supported the County’s participation in the Governor’s After?Action Review process.

“If there were gaps, we must acknowledge them. If there were disparities, we must confront them. And if systems need to change, we must change them,” Barger said.

“I stand ready to support the Attorney General’s efforts and remain committed to working collaboratively to ensure we learn from this tragedy and strengthen our emergency response systems for every community we serve,” she said.