In a tragic turn of events following the destructive Eaton fire in Altadena, the family of Miva Wheatley Friedli, an 86-year-old grandmother, has confirmed the discovery of human remains believed to be hers. The fire, which swept through the area earlier this month, left her home on Mariposa Street in ruins, with only a locked front gate and a pile of debris remaining.
Friedli, who had been living with Parkinson’s disease and dementia, was reported missing shortly after the fire devastated the neighborhood. Family members held out hope that she might have been lost and unable to identify herself, perhaps sheltering in a hospital or emergency facility. Her nephew, Juan Gonzalez, expressed disbelief when he found the remnants of her home, emphasizing the uncertainty and fear that gripped the family during the days of searching.
On January 15, just two days before what would have been Friedli’s birthday, search and rescue teams using cadaver dogs located the remains at the site of her home. The confirmation brought an overwhelming wave of grief to her family, who had been praying for her safety. “I was hoping, praying, doing everything that she would be found, because I could not come to grips with the alternative option,” said her sister, Carol Wheatley.
Friedli was born in Costa Rica and was one of 15 children. She moved to California as an adult to follow in her brother’s footsteps, eventually raising three sons. Known for her strong faith and vibrant personality, she worked in the medical field and later in childcare. Family members described her as a loving, independent woman who maintained her spirit even as she faced health challenges in her later years.
The aftermath of the fire has left many families in the community mourning not only the loss of homes but also the loss of loved ones. Friedli’s sister, Myrin Wheatley Brown, also lost her home in the fire. As the family searched through the ashes of their long-held residence, they were met with the stark reality of their situation.
The Los Angeles County medical examiner’s office is currently working to confirm the identity of the remains found at the site, which are still classified as unidentified. Meanwhile, Friedli’s family is left grappling with their profound loss and the unanswered questions surrounding her final moments.
Relatives have described Friedli as a devout Christian who often quoted scripture and sought to uplift those around her. Her sister Carol recalled how Friedli would always find something positive to say, embodying resilience and strength. “She was always reminding us, ‘We are very thankful to the Lord,’” Carol Wheatley said.
As the community begins to recover from the devastation of the Eaton fire, the memory of Miva Wheatley Friedli will remain a poignant reminder of the personal tragedies that accompany such disasters. Her family hopes that people will remember her not just for her struggles but for her unwavering faith and the love she shared with those around her.