The LA wildfire has caused havoc across the United States. And while it is understandable that people are scared, the emergency services are doing their best to control the situation. During these times, any form of support can significantly improve the mood of the affected individuals. However, numerous trolls have inundated social media with negative messages, prompting Rai Benjamin to respond with a concise, yet firm, response protecting the firefighters.

Benjamin is aware of the situation and cares about those affected by this natural disaster. But the presence of trolls has disgusted him, prompting him to take action by sending a message on social media.

Rai Benjamin’s wordplay at its best

How much destruction has the LA wildfire caused? As of January 11, 2025, Eaton and Palisades remain the most affected areas, with over 21,500 acres and 14,100 acres lost to the fire, respectively. The fire has also resulted in around 200,000 evacuations, but many of them are currently on hold, waiting in line. More than 12,000 structures have been destroyed, and the impact has gone over $150 billion. Sadly, despite quick efforts from the emergency services, there have been eleven fatalities due to the natural disaster.

People must unite in these harsh times and fight for what’s right. However, there have been many trolls on social media that have nothing but harsh statements, especially towards the firefighters. So shutting these people up, Rai Benjamin stated on his X profile, stating, “I’ve seen too many non-firefighters tell firefighters how to fight fires.” Indeed, the Olympic champion’s statement serves as a stern response to those who engage in trolling the people who have lost not only their money but also the valuable items they have dedicated their lives to acquiring. The firefighters are also doing their job well, despite the overwhelming amount of help needed in these times.

Benjamin’s message wasn’t very long, but it was enough to target the trolls. The Los Angeles Organizing Committee for the 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games’ official account recently posted about the LA wildfire, exemplifying the prevalence of trolls on social media. While they posted a link to dedicated helpline websites such as the American Red Cross LA Region, Los Angeles Fire Department Fund, California Fire Foundation, and Emergency Airbnb Support, they faced nothing but criticism and online trolling.

Beyond the negative aspects of the internet, there are also positive aspects to consider. Indeed, the LA wildfire caused nearly everything that one of the former Team USA Olympians possessed to be lost. However, with the help of the community, they garnered the required amount of donations to start all over again.

The community helped this Olympic star get back on their feet

The Los Angeles wildfire has decimated Palisades. On January 7, former Olympian Gary Hall Jr. noticed flames advancing towards his house. He drove his car towards the ocean with his dog, Puddles, and a few belongings. However, he left behind a lot of valuable possessions, including his ten Olympic medals. Furthermore, he lost everything, including his house and business worth around $1 million, as they turned into ashes. While the loss was immense, he immediately received support from the community via the GoFundMe page.

Gary quickly received 287 donations totaling $53,068, which, despite being significantly less than the lost amount, provided him with the motivation to begin again. “As much as I am overwhelmed by the loss of all worldly possessions, home, and business, I am overwhelmed by the love and support of so many reaching out through this difficult time,” he conveyed his thanks for all the donations and also sent out prayers to those who have been affected by this natural disaster. So what’s next for the swimming legend? As Palisades will be inhabitable for a long time, he’s already searching for a new house and a pool so that he can start up his business again.