A viral video claiming to show a man rescuing a rabbit from wildfires in Los Angeles has sparked interest on social media. However, investigations reveal the footage is misleading; it was actually filmed during the 2017 Ventura County fires. Despite the emotional appeal, the video is unrelated to the current fires in California. The true rescuer, Caleb Wadnan, emphasized the importance of caution during such dangerous situations.
Misleading Viral Video During California Fires
On social media platform X, a video has captured the attention of users with the claim that it is *’the most beautiful you will see this week.’* This particular clip, which is trending under the hashtag ‘#LosAngeles’, emerges amidst the backdrop of violent wildfires ravaging the city. The footage depicts a man at night, anxiously attempting to rescue a small creature fleeing from the encroaching flames.
The scene shows the man successfully capturing the frightened rabbit, whose large ears unmistakably identify it. Without this timely intervention, the rabbit’s chances of survival in such perilous conditions would have been bleak.
The Truth Behind the Footage
While many viewers were touched by the young man’s bravery, it’s important to note that this video, despite its recent circulation, is misleading. Investigations reveal that the footage was actually recorded in December 2017, during another series of devastating fires in California. The BBC clarified that the events took place in Ventura County, northwest of Los Angeles, as roughly 50,000 residents were evacuated due to the flames.
This video, which garnered over 200,000 views before being taken down, is unrelated to the current fires threatening California. Furthermore, it has a history of controversy. Initially, an individual claiming to be the rabbit’s rescuer shared his account, supported by his partner. However, his narrative faced scrutiny when the true rescuer, Caleb Wadnan, came forward. He recounted how he spotted the terrified rabbit while assessing the fire’s impact on the highway.
*’I ran after it,’* Caleb explained, *’I had a lot of confidence in myself at that moment and focused on my life rather than the flames surrounding me.’* Although this act of courage is commendable, authorities have used this story to caution residents against taking unnecessary risks during such dangerous situations.
If you have questions or encounter information that seems unreliable, please reach out to us at [email protected]. You can also connect with us on X, where our team is active under the handle @verif_TF1LCI.