Local News
Victims killed in the California wildfires identified
The Southern California wildfires, fueled by extreme winds and dry conditions, have claimed the lives of at least 11 people, devastated thousands of homes, and displaced approximately 180,000 residents.
Among the victims are individuals who made heroic choices, staying behind to protect their homes, care for loved ones, or simply misjudging the speed and ferocity of the fires.
Here is what we know about those who lost their lives:
Randall Miod
The Palisades Fire, which has claimed multiple lives and destroyed countless properties, has taken the life of a well-known and cherished figure in Malibu’s surfing community. Friends and family have confirmed that 55-year-old Miod, a local surfer and long-time Malibu resident, tragically perished in the devastating blaze.
Miod, affectionately known in the community for his love of simplicity and the ocean, lived in a quaint house he called “The Crab Shack.” The home, nestled in the heart of Malibu, reflected his laid-back lifestyle and deep connection to the coastal town.
His close friend Corina Cline described Miod as someone who found joy in the simple pleasures of life, whether it was catching waves or spending quiet moments by the sea. “He truly loved living in Malibu. His life was centered around the ocean, his home, and the people he cared about,” Cline shared.
Anthony and Justin Mitchell
Anthony Mitchell, 67, and his son, Justin Mitchell, perished in their Altadena home. Anthony, a wheelchair user after a leg amputation last year, refused to leave Justin behind. Justin, who had cerebral palsy and could not walk, was described as enjoying television and having stories read to him. Anthony’s son remembered him as a devoted “protector” who prioritized family above all else.
Erliene Louise Kelley
Erliene Louise Kelley, 83, was a beloved figure in her community, known for her strong but kind demeanor. She had experienced wildfires before and believed she would be safe. Unfortunately, when flames engulfed her home, Kelley was unable to escape. Her granddaughter, Briana Navarro, described her as a “sweet” yet “stern” matriarch who was cherished by many in the neighborhood.
Victor Shaw
Victor Shaw, 66, died while trying to defend his family home from the Eaton Fire. The house had been in the Shaw family for more than five decades. His sister, Shari Shaw, lived with him and recalled trying to convince him to leave as flames approached their property. Despite her efforts, Victor stayed behind to protect the home.
Rodney Kent Nickerson
Rodney Kent Nickerson, 83, reassured his family and neighbors that he would be fine, refusing to evacuate his Altadena home. Nickerson, a retired project engineer manager at Lockheed Martin with a 45-year career, was determined to protect the home he had lived in since 1968. He was last seen hosing down his property around 7 p.m. Tuesday. His daughter, Kimiko, shared that her father’s confidence and attachment to the home ultimately cost him his life.
Rory Sykes
Former Australian child star Rory Sykes, 32, who was born blind and had cerebral palsy, died in his family’s Malibu estate. The cottage where Rory lived was consumed by flames on Wednesday, leaving his mother unable to save him. Rory gained fame in the late 1990s for his role in the British TV show Kiddy Kapers. His passing adds a layer of tragedy to an already devastating event.
Officials have cautioned that the death toll may rise as investigators face significant barriers, including active flames, downed power lines, and unstable structures, preventing access to affected areas.
The wildfires have left an indelible mark on Southern California communities, with stories of loss and heroism emerging amidst the devastation. Emergency responders and federal agencies like FEMA continue to assist displaced residents, with over 16,000 applications for aid already filed.
As the fires rage on, officials urge residents to heed evacuation orders and prioritize safety above all else.
CHEROKEE COUNTY, S.C. — Tragedy struck early Sunday morning when a house fire claimed the lives of four family members in Gaffney, South Carolina.
Officials say the blaze broke out inside a one-story wood-frame home on East Third Street shortly before 1:40 a.m.
According to the Cherokee County Coroner’s Office, one resident, identified as Kathy Shippy, managed to escape the burning home and ran across the street to alert a neighbor and call 911.
Surveillance footage from the neighbor’s doorbell camera captured the home already fully engulfed in flames by the time the call was made.
Coroner Dennis Fowler identified the victims as:
- Willie Morris, 38
- Dakeyia Shippy, 25
- Mason Issac, 4
- Jerekry McGill, 7 months
All were residents of the home and relatives of the survivor.
Preliminary findings suggest the fire began after Morris attempted to refuel a kerosene heater inside the home, which caused the blaze to ignite suddenly and spread rapidly.
“All four victims were found on the floor of the kitchen at the rear of the house and appeared to have been trying to escape through a window when they were overcome by smoke,” the coroner’s office reported.
Autopsies are scheduled to determine the precise causes of death and assist investigators in confirming the fire’s origin.
Gaffney Fire Chief Jamie Caggiano urged the public to use extreme caution when operating space or kerosene heaters.
“Never attempt to refuel a heater indoors or while it is still hot,” Chief Caggiano said, emphasizing fire safety during colder months.
The incident remains under joint investigation by the Gaffney Fire Marshal’s Office, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).
Authorities described the loss as “heartbreaking” and extended condolences to the family and community members affected by the tragedy.