The **Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD)** is reaching out to firearm owners who may have lost their weapons in the devastating **Palmer Fire**, which ravaged the west side of Los Angeles earlier this year. The **Palmer Fire**, which ignited on **January 7, 2025**, consumed **23,448 acres** and left a trail of destruction in its wake.
In a recent press release, the LAPD announced that individuals who believe they lost firearms in the fire can now contact the department’s **Gun Recovery Unit** to initiate the process of reclaiming their weapons. To begin, owners must provide personal identification details, proof of residence, and a description of the firearm.
**ALAN HAMILTON**, the LAPD’s Chief of Detectives, stated that since January, officers have meticulously recovered and rendered approximately **500 firearms safe**. He emphasized the sentimental value these weapons may hold for their owners, whether as family heirlooms, historical artifacts, or personal mementos.
Many of the recovered firearms sustained severe fire damage, making identification challenging. Despite their condition, the LAPD remains committed to processing and returning these items to their rightful owners.
To report a lost firearm, community members are encouraged to file a **Lost Property Report** at any LAPD station or online at **lapdonline.org**. Alternatively, they can email the Gun Recovery Unit at **palisadesfire@lapd.online**.
The **Palmer Fire**, along with the **Eaton Fire**, which burned **14,201 acres**, has been described as one of the worst natural disasters in **Los Angeles County** history. The fires claimed **28 lives**, damaged or destroyed over **16,000 structures**, and forced the evacuation of **180,000 residents** at their peak.
According to **AccuWeather**, the combined economic losses from these fires are estimated to exceed **$250 billion**.
For more information, visit the LAPD’s official website or contact the Gun Recovery Unit directly.
**Source:** [Fox News](https://www.foxnews.com)