Local News
Multiple homes burning on El Hito in Pacific Palisades
PACIFIC PALISADES, — A fast-moving fire has devastated multiple homes on El Hito Drive in Pacific Palisades, prompting urgent firefighting efforts and heightened concerns about its spread into nearby areas, including Meskill Canyon.
Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD) confirmed that several homes on El Hito Drive have been engulfed in flames, with crews working tirelessly to contain the blaze. At one residence located at 1226 El Hito Drive, firefighters rescued an individual who was trapped inside. The condition of the rescued person has not been disclosed.
Firefighters have expressed concern about the fire potentially advancing into Meskill Canyon, a development that could significantly exacerbate the situation. Additional firefighting resources have been requested to combat the growing threat.
As first responders work to manage the blaze, traffic disruptions have compounded the challenges. Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reports indicate that approximately 100 abandoned vehicles are blocking all lanes on Sunset Boulevard, further hindering emergency operations. Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area entirely to facilitate access for first responders.
Due to President Joe Biden’s ceremonial signing event at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Air Force One is currently stationed at the airport, restricting airspace in the region. This has prevented news helicopters from providing aerial coverage of the fire. Calls have been made for a pooled helicopter feed to improve situational awareness for both responders and the public.
Evacuations are ongoing in the affected neighborhoods as firefighters work to protect lives and property. Residents are urged to heed all evacuation orders immediately and prioritize their safety. An evacuation center has not yet been announced but is expected to be established shortly as conditions develop.
The situation remains fluid as firefighting efforts continue. Los Angeles County Fire Department and LAPD are expected to provide further updates as the fire’s behavior and containment efforts evolve.
Residents in the area are encouraged to monitor official channels and have their emergency evacuation plans ready. For updates on traffic and road closures, follow the LAPD and LACoFD on social media or tune into local news.
Volusia County, Fla. — A 16-year-old boy has died after being found unresponsive in the Indian River during a weekend camping and fishing trip, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities identified the teen as Hunter McKelvin of Paisley. Deputies said he was discovered face-down in the water Saturday morning near a small island east of Maynard May Park in Edgewater.
Members of the group located the teen and immediately began CPR before transporting him by boat to Maynard May Park.
Upon arrival, officers with the Edgewater Police Department and other emergency responders took over life-saving efforts.
McKelvin was then transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased later that morning.
Investigators reported that no visible injuries were observed, and there were no immediate signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances during the initial investigation.
An autopsy has been scheduled as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.