A Larchmont family who lost their home to a fire that began at a vacant property next door earlier this year says they’re now dealing with squatters who have taken over the site of where their house once stood.

The Galicia family’s house was destroyed in a fire that claimed the lives of their two dogs this past spring. The blaze began at a vacant house next door and spread to the family home, ripping through it on March 8. Pastor Juan Galicia said he was delivering a sermon on hope at his South LA church when the fire broke out.

As the family continues to navigate the loss, another headache arises in the form of trespassers. They say squatters have taken over the property and littered it with drug paraphernalia, graffiti and condoms. The family said the squatters have also gutted the property of its copper wiring.

“They were here the last time I went,” William Galicia said. “It was bothersome. They made my skin boil.”

The family added that they’ve repeatedly sought help from the city but have not been shown any support. “We spoke to (them) many times, called the city and the city says they don’t know who’s the owner next door,” Juan Galicia said. “How is that possible? I don’t understand.”

City Response

The office for Councilmember Hugo Soto Martinez, who represents Larchmont Village, said it’s aware of the situation and is working with building and safety officials. Until then, though, the Galicia family said it’s been difficult to rebuild or even reclaim their home of 18 years due to the intruders.

Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.