dominant Max Emerson and fiancé Andrew Camillo Los Angeles lost their home in the wildfires - and the tragedy almost called for their decade-long relationship to end.

"After nine years together we have decided to separate," Emerson and Camilo wrote in a joint statement Instagram Monday, January 13 statement, alongside a series of photos throughout their relationship. “The fire that took us home accelerated this decision with our transparency and simplicity. We have already started exploring different avenues—this tragedy is acting as a catalyst for a clean break."

The pair explained that they realized it was "time" to start their lives again "as individuals", but noted that they do not regret the years they spent together.

"We didn't waste time together," they continued. “We still love each other completely, deeply and unconditionally. That love never ends; As it evolves we partner with respect and gratitude, carrying forward what we have learned.”

Emerson and Camillo revealed earlier this week that their residence was one of the homes lost during the wildfires, which started through Los Angeles on Jan. 7 when high winds fueled brush fires that quickly spread to Pacific Palisades and surrounding neighborhoods. Fire destroyed Over 12,000 structuresAnd more than 150,000 people have been placed under mandatory evacuation orders

At this time, Emerson and Camilo accept Instagram to reveal that almost "their entire" neighborhood had been "burned to the ground", but clarified that they were safely in Utah for work.

"We're so thankful to be somewhere that feels safe right now," Emerson said in the Jan. 10 video. Camilo added, “We feel a sense of loss for everything in our home, for what our neighbors are going through. Everyone who is displaced.”

Although Emerson said they were both "grieving for our planet right now," Camillo noted that they were also grieving the loss of all their personal items, including "art," "photos" and other "valuables."

"We are filled with gratitude and a deep sense of loss," Emerson captioned the post, promising to share more in the coming days as "the amount of consideration is overwhelming right now."

Emerson returned Instagram A carousel of photos of the happy time alongside sharing a video of the couple's house going up in flames on Jan. 11. She revealed that she and Camilo have "completely restored" the house "with the hope of starting our family" there.

"Words cannot fully express the devastation we feel for all that was lost in less than twenty-four hours," she captioned the post. “Despite putting some of our dreams on hold, we remain optimistic and excited for the future… and it's all because of the tsunami of love and support we've received from our family, friends and community. It's all very overwhelming, so please bear with us if we don't communicate much over the next few weeks. Thank you for always showing up for us."

Emerson ended the post with a shoutout to their neighbor, who "did everything he could to save our home."