The Southern California wildfires have claimed the lives of at least eleven people, with thousands of structures destroyed and 180,000 people forced from their homes. Among the victims were Anthony and Justin Mitchell, a father and son who stayed behind to protect their home, despite Justin having cerebral palsy; Erliene Louise Kelley, a beloved grandmother who perished in her Altadena home; Victor Shaw, who died while trying to protect his family home of over 50 years; Rodney Kent Nickerson, who reassured loved ones he would be fine and perished in his Altadena house; and former child star Rory Sykes, who was unable to be saved from his burning cottage by his mother.
Anthony Mitchell was described as a protector who loved his family dearly. Erliene Louise Kelley was known as a sweet and stern woman who was a familiar face in her neighborhood. Victor Shaw perished trying to save the family home, while Rodney Kent Nickerson refused to evacuate and stayed behind to protect his property. Rory Sykes, who was born blind and had cerebral palsy, died in the California wildfires after his mother was unable to save him from his burning cottage. These devastating losses highlight the tragic toll of the wildfires ravaging Southern California.
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