The devastation caused by the recent wildfires in Southern California has claimed the lives of at least 27 individuals, with more feared to have perished as the flames continue to ravage communities. As the fires tore through neighborhoods in Los Angeles, many victims were found trying to defend the homes where they spent decades of their lives. Some stayed behind to protect family members, while others remained in their homes, believing they could weather the storm.
Here are the stories of some of the victims:
Anthony and Justin Mitchell
67-year-old Anthony Mitchell, a great-grandfather, and his son, Justin Mitchell, who had cerebral palsy, both tragically died in their Altadena home. Anthony’s son, Anthony, described his father as a man who would never leave family behind. Despite being in a wheelchair after a leg amputation, Anthony’s father refused to abandon Justin. “My dad loved his family,” Anthony recalled. “He was willing to die for them.” Tragically, their final moments were spent in a desperate attempt to survive the raging fire that overtook their neighborhood.
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Erliene Louise Kelley
Erliene Louise Kelley, 83, known for her warmth and connection to the local community, decided to stay in her Altadena home despite rising smoke and evacuation warnings. Her granddaughter, Briana Navarro, recalled the family’s attempts to persuade Kelley to leave, but she was not concerned, having survived a previous wildfire. Unfortunately, Kelley perished when the fire engulfed her home, and Navarro believes her grandmother found peace in staying behind, surrounded by the place she loved for decades.
Victor Shaw
Victor Shaw, 66, was another casualty who died trying to protect his family home in Eaton Fire. Shaw’s sister recalled that as flames advanced, she begged him to evacuate, but he stayed behind. The next morning, Shaw’s body was found near the home, a garden hose still in his hand, signaling his valiant effort to save the home that had been in the family for over 50 years.
Rodney Kent Nickerson
At 83, Rodney Kent Nickerson assured his family that he would be fine as he stayed behind to protect his Altadena home. Despite the urging of his daughter and neighbors, Nickerson remained to hose down the property. Tragically, he was found in his bed, having succumbed to the fire. His daughter, Kimiko, reflected on the home he had lived in since 1968 and the deep bond he had with the place.
Rory Sykes
Rory Sykes, a former Australian child star born blind and with cerebral palsy, lost his life in the Palisades Fire. His mother, Shelley Sykes, described her desperation in trying to save her son. Despite her broken arm and the lack of resources, she couldn’t prevent the fire from engulfing their home. “No mom could leave their kid,” Shelley said, heartbreakingly recalling her last moments with Rory before the fire destroyed the cottage where he had lived.
Randall Lawrence Miod
Randy “Craw Daddy” Miod, a well-known Malibu resident, tragically died in the Palisades Fire while attempting to protect his beloved home, the “Crab Shack.” His mother, Carol Smith, spoke about the last conversation she had with him, where he expressed his intent to stay and defend his property. Smith also recounted how Miod had experienced numerous wildfires during his 30 years in Malibu but didn’t anticipate this one would be any different.
Dalyce Curry
Dalyce “Mama Dee” Curry, 95, was found dead in her home after the Eaton Fire swept through. Curry’s granddaughter, Dalyce Kelley, dropped her off at home just before the fire ignited. Despite the evacuation orders, Curry, a beloved figure in her community, did not have access to the emergency alerts and was unable to leave.
Arthur Simoneau
Arthur Simoneau, 69, was a seasoned hang-glider pilot who died in the Palisades Fire. He was returning from a ski trip when he learned about the evacuation orders but chose to stay behind and save his home. His neighbors remembered him as a caretaker and a pillar of the community, someone who always took care of his neighbors and fought to protect what he loved.
Charles Mortimer and Kim Winiecki
Charles Mortimer, 84, and Kim Winiecki, 77, were both victims of the Palisades Fire. Mortimer’s death was confirmed by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner, while Winiecki, who had lived a reclusive life after retirement, chose to remain in her home despite evacuation orders. Her close friend, Jeannette McMahon, shared how Winiecki’s love for her home made it difficult for her to leave, not realizing the danger she was in until it was too late.
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Zhi Feng Zhao and Annette Rossilli
Zhi Feng Zhao, 84, also perished in the Eaton Fire, and Annette Rossilli, 85, died in the same area. Rossilli, who was known for her bubbly personality, insisted on staying in her home despite being urged to leave, fearing for the safety of her pets. Her caregivers tried to get her to evacuate, but she refused to leave without her animals, ultimately succumbing to the flames.
The fire continues to wreak havoc across Southern California, with the full scope of the destruction yet to be realized. As loved ones and communities mourn their losses, the heroic and selfless actions of these individuals serve as a testament to their deep love for their families, homes, and communities. The pain of their untimely deaths is compounded by the heartache of their unwavering commitment to protect the places that defined their lives.
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