The devastating Southern California wildfires that swept through Los Angeles in January 2025 left a trail of destruction and heartbreak, claiming the lives of 12 individuals. As firefighters worked tirelessly to contain the blazes, poignant stories emerged about the victims, painting a picture of the human cost of this natural disaster. These individuals, ranging in age from 32 to 95, came from diverse backgrounds and lived full lives, leaving behind grieving families and communities.
Remembering the Victims: Stories of Courage and Tragedy
The victims of the wildfires were not just numbers; they were individuals with unique stories, passions, and connections. Their stories offer a glimpse into the chaos and fear that gripped the region as the fires raged.
Randall “Randy” Miod: The Soul of Malibu
Randall “Randy” Miod, 55, a beloved figure in the Malibu community, lost his life in the Pacific Palisades Fire. Known for his generosity and open-door policy at his home, affectionately nicknamed the “Crab Shack,” Miod was a surfer and restaurant worker who embodied the laid-back spirit of the coast. He tragically perished while attempting to protect his home, a decision that reflected his deep connection to the place he loved.
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Evelyn McClendon: A Life Cut Short
Evelyn McClendon, 59, was a victim of the Eaton Fire. Remembered by her nephew, Jamire Calvin, as a lover of classical music, movies, and political discourse, McClendon’s death left a void in her family. The circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear, adding to the family’s grief and raising questions about evacuation procedures.
Victor Shaw: A Final Act of Defiance
Victor Shaw, 66, of Altadena, perished in the Eaton Fire while valiantly defending his family home with a garden hose. Despite his limited mobility due to health issues, Shaw refused to evacuate, choosing to stay and protect the place he had called home for 55 years. His courage and determination ultimately cost him his life.
Annette Rossilli: Loyalty to Her Beloved Pets
Annette Rossilli, 85, a longtime Pacific Palisades resident, tragically died in her car after refusing to evacuate without her pets. Despite pleas from caregivers and neighbors, Rossilli chose to remain with her dog, canary, parrots, and turtle, highlighting the difficult choices faced by many during the evacuations.
Dalyce Curry: A Hollywood Legacy Lost
Dalyce Curry, 95, affectionately known as “Momma D,” was an actress who had appeared in classic films like The Blues Brothers and The Ten Commandments. Her life, filled with Hollywood history and family love, was tragically cut short by the Eaton Fire. Her remains were found amidst the devastation, leaving her granddaughter to mourn the loss of a vibrant and influential woman.
Erliene Kelley: The Perfect Neighbor
Erliene Kelley, 83, a retired pharmacy technician and beloved member of her Altadena community, perished in the Eaton Fire. Remembered for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith, Kelley chose to remain in her home, trusting in God’s protection. Her final text message to her granddaughter, describing the approaching fire, serves as a haunting reminder of the rapid and unpredictable nature of the disaster.
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Rodney Nickerson: Rooted in History
Rodney Nickerson, 82, a retired project engineer with deep family ties to the Los Angeles area, lost his life in the Eaton Fire. He chose to remain in his Altadena home of over 50 years, despite the approaching danger. His refusal to evacuate underscores the strong emotional connection many residents had to their homes and communities.
Anthony and Justin Mitchell: An Unbreakable Bond
Anthony Mitchell, 67, an amputee wheelchair user, and his son Justin, who had cerebral palsy, died together in the Eaton Fire. Their tragic story highlights the challenges faced by those with disabilities during emergencies. Anthony’s daughter believes he was trying to save his son when they were overtaken by the flames, a testament to the enduring power of parental love.
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Arthur Simoneau: A Daredevil’s Last Flight
Arthur Simoneau, 69, a passionate and fearless hang glider, died in the Pacific Palisades Fire while attempting to save his Topanga home. Known for his adventurous spirit and determination, Simoneau rushed back from a ski trip to protect his property, ultimately losing his life in the process.
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Rory Sykes: An Inspirational Life Cut Short
Rory Sykes, 32, who lived with cerebral palsy and blindness, died in a cottage on his family’s Malibu property. Remembered for his inspiring outlook on life and his dedication to helping others, Sykes’s death is a profound loss to his family and the disability community. His mother, Shelley, recalls his unwavering spirit and his determination to live life to the fullest.
Kim Winiecki: A Private Life, A Public Loss
Kim Winiecki, 77, a retiree known for her privacy and independence, perished in the Eaton Fire. Her decision to stay in her Altadena home, despite evacuation orders, reflects the strong attachment many residents felt to their properties. Her friends remember her wit, humor, and vibrant personality.
Charles Mortimer: A Life Lived Fully
Charles Mortimer, 84, of Pacific Palisades, succumbed to a heart attack in a hospital after suffering burns and smoke inhalation in the wildfires. A devoted sports fan, Mortimer was remembered for his quick wit, brilliant mind, and love for his family. His death underscores the devastating and far-reaching consequences of the fires.
Zhi Feng Zhao: A Quiet Life Lost
Zhi Feng Zhao, 84, of Altadena, died in his home as a result of the Eaton Fire. Limited information is available about Zhao’s life, but his death serves as a reminder that every life lost represents a unique and irreplaceable individual. His passing adds to the immense toll exacted by the wildfires on the community.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of nature and the importance of preparedness in the face of such disasters. The stories of these 12 victims offer a glimpse into the lives lost and the resilience of a community grappling with unimaginable loss. Their memories will forever be intertwined with the history of the 2025 California wildfires. While the physical scars of the fires may fade, the emotional scars will undoubtedly linger, a testament to the profound impact of this tragedy.
