Death toll in Eaton, Palisades fires rises to 24 as crews prepare for more strong winds

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LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- At least 24 people are believed to be dead and more than a dozen others remain unaccounted for as multiple wildfires, fueled by severe drought conditions and strong Santa Ana winds, continue to rage across Southern California, leaving fire crews scrambling to contain the historic destruction.

Key Headlines in the last 24 hours

Here's how the news is developing.
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Jan 13, 2025, 2:13 PM

Wildfires burning in SoCal: Numbers at a glance

Here are all the current wildfires burning in Southern California at a glance.

Palisades Fire

- 23,713 acres
- 14% containment
- 8 deaths
- 5,316 structures burned

Eaton Fire in San Gabriel Valley

- 14,117 acres
- 33% contained
- Approximately 7,081 structures believed to be damaged or destroyed (structures includes vehicles)
- 16 deaths
- 5 firefighter injuries

Hurst Fire in Sylmar

- 799 acres

- 89% contained

Kenneth Fire in West Hills

- 1,052 acres

- 100% contained

Tim Caputo Image
Jan 12, 2025, 6:20 PM GMT

Neighbors spring into action after palm tree goes up in flames in Hollywood

Dramatic moments were caught on live TV after a palm tree in front of a house on Vista Street caught fire from a flying ember amid the Sunset Fire.

Dramatic moments were caught on live TV after a palm tree in front of a house on Vista Street caught fire from a flying ember amid the Sunset Fire.

The residents of the house were not home, so Good Samaritans communicated with them on their Ring camera, getting access to the home. As we watched, they were able to throw the hose onto the roof and then spray the palm tree.

The group of Good Samaritans worked for about 40 minutes to extinguish the flames. ABC7 reporter Tim Caputo spoke with one of the heroes:

A group of people came together in Hollywood to put out flames the ignited a palm tree at a stranger's home
Michelle Fisher Image
Jan 12, 2025, 6:20 PM GMT

Several iconic Malibu restaurants destroyed in Pacific Palisades fire

Several restaurants along Pacific Coast Highway have been destroyed in the Pacific Palisades fire, leaving business owners distraught and heartbroken.

One of them was Moonshadows Malibu, known for its tiki-themed patio overlooking the Pacific.

The restaurant's official Instagram has been sharing different messages from customers, many of whom say they're devastated to hear about the loss.

Several restaurants along Pacific Coast Highway have been destroyed in the Pacific Palisades fire, leaving business owners distraught and heartbroken.

"I have the fondest core memories from Moonshadows Malibu from during my time at Pepperdine," wrote one customer. "Places like this are an anchor to a sense of place and time; losing them is disorienting and heartbreaking. This is just gut-wrenching. Prayers just unceasing right now."

The Rosenthal Wine Bar & Patio, known for its oversized tables and chairs, and Cholada Thai were also destroyed in the fire.

"We are heartbroken to announce that our first Cholada location on the Pacific Coast has been lost after serving since 1999 due to the Palisades wildfire," read a statement posted on Instagram. "We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has tagged us and show their support during this difficult time."

David González Image
Jan 12, 2025, 6:20 PM GMT

Palisades fire destroys oceanfront homes in Malibu

The Palisades fire spread from the Pacific Palisades neighborhood into Malibu, where it destroyed multiple of oceanfront homes.

Near and along Las Tunas Beach, the ruins of homes were smoldering.

ABC7 reporter David Gonzalez was at the beach and saw the devastation firsthand.

The Palisades fire has grown, reaching the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu. The flames destroyed oceanfront homes.
Jan 12, 2025, 6:20 PM GMT

Traffic gridlock on busy Hollywood street as evacuations issued for Sunset Fire

The Sunset Fire that erupted in the Hollywood Hills has forced mandatory evacuations that includes busy Hollywood streets. In one well-known Hollywood street, traffic was at a standstill as people tried to get out.

The Sunset Fire that erupted in the Hollywood Hills has forced mandatory evacuations that includes busy Hollywood streets.