Two Airport Fire victims have spoken up about their experience losing their home in the Southern California blaze. The Airport Fire, which broke out on Monday, September 9th in Orange County on Trabuco Creek Road, has since scorched over 23,500 acres of land and destroyed more than 150 structures.
Victims Charlie and Nikki Hoey, husband and wife, lost everything in the span of a few hours on Wednesday, September 11, 2024. As the Airport Fire continued to spread, it made its way over the ridge down into Riverside County. The Hoeys say they had less than an hour to pack what they needed and evacuate their home, narrowly escaping the flames as they descended.
Charlie Hoey noted the losses they experienced were even more devastating due to so many of the items lost being family items handed down from grandparents.
Legal Options Available for Homeowners Affected by the Airport Fire
Wildfires can have disastrous effects, especially when homes are affected. The losses homeowners face in the wake of such events can be devastating, not only financially, but emotionally, as well. The costs of evacuating, temporary housing, and rebuilding after the fire can be immense. Those affected by the airport fire may have legal avenues available to them to help recover the damages they have suffered. Victims of the Airport Fire may potentially seek compensation for expenses including:
- Property Damage: this may include compensation for the loss of homes, vehicles, and other personal belongings such as irreplaceable family heirlooms.
- Temporary Housing: this may include compensation for the cost of temporary housing, food, and other costs associated with obtaining emergency lodging in a safe location away from the fire.
- Emotional Distress: losing a home and significant personal items can cause emotional trauma, which may be considered when seeking compensation for non-economic damages.
“Wildfires wreak havoc on the lives of victims in their path,” says managing partner and attorney, Gerald Singleton, of Singleton Schreiber, “our team is heartbroken for the many individuals and families who’ve lost everything to the Airport Fire. We understand that the effects of this kind of loss can be devastating and cause financial and emotional turmoil. Victims who’ve lost their homes and belongings may wish to pursue a claim to obtain compensation for the losses they’ve suffered due to the fire.”
If you’ve lost your home in the Airport Fire in Orange or Riverside Counties, contact the team at Singleton Schreiber to learn more about your options and schedule a free consultation today. Contact the team at Singleton Schreiber today or call them at (310) 455-8351 to get started.
