Celebrities among those to lose homes in devastating Los Angeles wildfire
Thousands of firefighters are attempting to contain the original Palisades fire, which has burnt nearly 16,000 acres, and seven others across southern California which threaten to destroy more homes and lives as strong winds scattered embers.
The wildfires have seen the city declare a state of emergency, with at least 70,000 people forced to evacuate their homes as the metropolitan area became blanketed in a thick cloud of smoke and ash.
The latest update saw a new fire break out in the Hollywood Hills, threatening a host of tourist sites including the Walk of Fame.
Paris Hilton and Billy Crystal have described the anguish they feel at losing the respective homes they raised their children in, amid the “unprecedented wildfires” raging across Los Angeles.
Hilton said she was “heartbroken beyond words” to see her Malibu home “burn to the ground on live TV” as she watched the news with her family – including her son Phoenix and daughter London whom she shares with husband Carter Reum.
“This home was where we built so many precious memories. It’s where Phoenix took his first steps and where we dreamed of building a lifetime of memories with London,” she said in a post on Instagram.
“While the loss is overwhelming, I’m holding onto gratitude that my family and pets are safe.”
It comes months after a trailer on the set of her Bad Bitch Academy music video set fire, which saw “so many of my favourite things destroyed”, Hilton said at the time.
Meanwhile US actor Crystal, and his wife Janice, have confirmed their home of 46 years was destroyed in the blaze.
“Words cannot describe the enormity of the devastation we are witnessing and experiencing,” the couple said in a joint statement given to the PA news agency.
“Janice and I lived in our home since 1979. We raised our children and grandchildren here. Every inch of our house was filled with love. Beautiful memories that can’t be taken away.
“We are heartbroken of course but with the love of our children and friends we will get through this.”
The couple described the Pacific Palisades as a “resilient community of amazing people”, adding: “It is our home”.
Governor Gavin Newsom thanked US President Joe Biden for his “swift response and aid to California as we work to battle these unprecedented wildfires”.
More than 1,400 firefighters remained on the scene, alongside 267 fire engines and nine helicopters, according to the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.