Los Angeles, CA – A new study reveals the January wildfires in los Angeles County likely caused at least 440 deaths, a figure dramatically higher than the official count of 31, as the emotional and economic fallout continues for residents and business owners.

The January Palisades and Eaton Fires, which ignited on January 14th and 16th respectively, resulted in the destruction of approximately 16,000 structures across Los Angeles County, impacting communities from Pacific Palisades to Sylmar.

“ItS depressing,” said Gordon Wong, owner of Knolls Pharmacy, located at 8745 Sunset Blvd, Pacific Palisades. Wong’s pharmacy, a fixture in the community for 36 years, was wholly destroyed by the fires. “It’s really hard. It’s like your child, like you lost a child, and you saw it grow up all these years.”

Wong described the loss as “years of memories,” adding, “It’s just a really tough, long journey for everyone.” He also expressed frustration with the city’s response, stating, “The city should be able to do more. Thay’re kind of like a ghost that disappeared on us.”

The revised death toll comes from a study released this week by researchers at Boston University,led by mortality demographer andrew Stokes. The study highlights the limitations of current methods for tracking wildfire-related fatalities.

“The Medical Examiner’s Office currently onyl attributes deaths to wildfires based on direct exposure and burns,” explained Stokes. “Our research indicates a significant number of deaths were caused by the inhalation of toxic constituents and particles in the wildfire smoke,as well as indirect consequences such as exacerbation of pre-existing health conditions and displacement-related stress.”

The Eaton Fire burned over 4,444 acres, while the Palisades Fire consumed 1,158 acres. Both fires were fueled by dry conditions and Santa Ana winds. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) deployed significant resources, including over 800 firefighters at the peak of the emergencies.

Mayoral candidate Rick Caruso echoed Wong’s concerns, criticizing the city’s response as lacking urgency and focus. “Ther’s a lack of urgency, there’s a lack of focus,” Caruso stated. “Nobody in the city has ever reached out to him and said, ‘how can we help, support you, cut through your permit process?’ That needs to be a daily occurrence.”

Relief efforts are underway, but access to resources remains a challenge for many. Business owners impacted by the fires can apply for relief funds through the Steadfast LA Small Business Initiative: https://www.steadfastla.com/steadfast-la-small-business-initiative.