The devastating wildfire that swept through Malibu and Pacific Palisades on January 7 left a trail of destruction in its wake. The inferno, fueled by unprecedented Santa Ana winds, destroyed beachfront homes, charred vehicles, and ravaged iconic landmarks. The aftermath of the fire was captured in poignant images by Variety contributor Michael Buckner, highlighting the enormity of the loss and the long road to recovery ahead.
One of the affected areas was the Bay Theater, a five-screen cinema that was taken over by Netflix in 2021. While the theater and most of Palisades Village remained standing, the surrounding devastation was evident. Nearby shops were burned, and the mall sat empty and silent, except for the distant sound of a security alarm.
Air tankers continued to battle the flames days after the fire, with Pacific Coast Highway bearing the scars of the destruction. A child’s playhouse stood amidst the ruins of a home, serving as a poignant reminder of the impact of the wildfire on families in the area.
Antioch Street was shrouded in ash and soot, with charred palm trees casting eerie shadows on the walls. The devastation was palpable as two men surveyed the damage in the dim light of the street.
NBC News reporter Jacob Soboroff, a Palisades native, interviewed Albino Fuentes outside Cafe Vida, where Fuentes had worked for 15 years. Fuentes expressed hope for the community’s recovery, despite the loss and destruction.
Carbon Beach, known for its luxurious beachfront homes, was not spared from the fire’s wrath. Some of the multi-million dollar properties were reduced to ashes, leaving a stark contrast between the untouched homes on the ridge above and the charred remains below.
The images captured by Michael Buckner also showcased the destruction of iconic landmarks such as the Community United Methodist Church, which celebrated its 100th anniversary just three years prior. The church tower, a symbol of resilience, had stood since 1929 but was now reduced to rubble.
The Palisades Charter Elementary School, Paliskates skate shop, and Wylie’s Bait & Tackle were among the many businesses impacted by the fire. The once vibrant storefronts lay in ruins, a stark reminder of the community’s loss.
Firefighters from across the state, including those from San Ramon Valley, worked tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent further devastation. Their heroic efforts were captured in images of firefighters battling the flames and dousing embers in the aftermath of the fire.
The road to recovery for Malibu and Pacific Palisades will be long and arduous, but the resilience and spirit of the community shine through in the face of adversity. As the cleanup and rebuilding efforts begin, the images captured by Michael Buckner serve as a poignant reminder of the strength and unity of the community in the face of tragedy.
