Thu Jan 09 14:44:46 UTC 2025: **Los Angeles Millionaire CEO Faces Backlash for Seeking ‘Private Firefighters’ Amid Wildfire Crisis**

LOS ANGELES, CA – The devastating wildfire currently engulfing Los Angeles has sparked outrage after Keith Wasserman, co-founder of Gelt Venture Partners, a real estate investment firm, posted a plea on X (formerly Twitter) seeking “private firefighters” to protect his Pacific Palisades mansion. The post, which garnered over a million views before being deleted, drew fierce criticism for its perceived insensitivity.

Wasserman’s message urgently requested assistance, stating that neighboring homes were burning and offering to pay “any amount.” This request came as over 100,000 residents were ordered to evacuate amidst hurricane-force winds fueling the rapidly spreading blaze. At least five deaths have been reported since the fire began on Tuesday.

The post ignited a firestorm of online condemnation, with users lambasting Wasserman’s actions as “tone-deaf” and “incredibly nerve-wracking.” Critics pointed out the potential diversion of crucial resources from already overwhelmed emergency services, arguing that his wealth should not guarantee preferential treatment during a crisis impacting thousands. The comments highlighted the stark contrast between Wasserman’s desperate attempt to save his insured property and the plight of countless residents struggling to escape the inferno.

The wildfire, described by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass as “the big one,” has consumed homes of numerous celebrities and destroyed some of the city’s most opulent properties. Mayor Bass cut short a trip to Ghana to return and address the escalating emergency. The scale of the disaster is evident, with a massive crescent of flames visible from space.

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