Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh met with first responders in California this week to thank them as they continue to battle the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles that have claimed at least 27 lives. He expressed his gratitude directly.
A video the team shared on social media Thursday shows Harbaugh greeting firefighters and law enforcement on the ground.
Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh answers questions during a press conference after defeating the Denver Broncos in an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 13, 2024, in Denver. (AP Photo/David Zarbowski)
The former Michigan coach shook hands and talked with several first responders and even stopped to take a few photos.
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Before the wild-card game between the Chargers and Houston Texans, Harbaugh told the media that the situation in California was at the forefront of his mind, and he praised the dedication of first responders and his neighbors. He added that he was “inspired” by his selflessness.
“My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this tragedy,” he said, according to the team's website. “I was also very inspired by how first responders, firefighters and residents came together to help each other.
“It was very inspirational,” he continued. “My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone involved in this fight. It's so moving to see neighbors helping each other on top of their homes.”
Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh during the second half of a game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. (Ron Chenoy-Iman Images)
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Last week, the Chargers pledged to donate $200,000 in targeted funds to the American Red Cross, Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, Team Rubicon, and pet rescue organizations protecting animals displaced by wildfires. .
“We are currently dealing with multiple fires across the region and are facing an unprecedented situation that we don't think can get any worse,” Chargers owner Dean Spanos said in a statement. “But we're also seeing our community at its best.” “The courage, selflessness, bravery, sacrifice and compassion shown by first responders, good Samaritans, friends, family and neighbors over the past 24 hours has been amazing.”
Water is dropped from a helicopter on the Palisades Fire in Mandeville Canyon in Los Angeles on January 11, 2025. (AP Photo/Eric Thayer)
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Officials in California say more than 30 people are still missing as the Palisades and Eaton fires continue to burn. Together, these two fires burned approximately 38,000 acres. The Palisades Fire is 27% contained and the Eaton Fire is 55% contained.
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