A California man has returned to the home he helped save during the Los Angeles wildfires a year ago.
When the Palisades fire broke out on Jan. 7, 2024 — within hours of the Eaton fire — Kevin Minds’ family fled their neighborhood. Minds, however, stayed behind alongside a stranger to defend his home and others on the street, according to CBS affiliate KCAL-TV.
The effort made a dramatic difference. Minds’ house, built by his father in 1970, survived the blaze, as did several neighboring homes on his side of the street. Across the road, every home was destroyed.
Although the structure remained intact, the aftermath was severe. Ash and soot blanketed the house and its contents, and testing later revealed high concentrations of lead. After receiving an insurance settlement, Minds used the funds to fully decontaminate and repair the property.
One year later, he has finally moved back in.
“It’s been a journey, but I’ve got nothing but gratitude right now,” Minds told KCAL-TV.
The Palisades and Eaton fires tore through communities across Los Angeles County — including Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Pasadena, and Altadena — burning for 31 days before being fully contained.
The Palisades fire began in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood and ultimately burned 23,448 acres, killing 12 people, according to CAL FIRE. The Eaton fire ignited in Altadena and Pasadena, scorching 14,021 acres and claiming 19 lives.
While the cause of the Eaton fire remains under investigation, a 29-year-old man has been charged in connection with starting the Palisades fire, which he denies. His attorney has said the charges are unfounded and based on misplaced blame.
In the year since the fires, Minds has taken steps to better protect his home from future disasters. Upgrades include a fire-resistant roof and improved landscaping designed to reduce fire risk.
“I’m just so ready to be back in this house,” Minds said, noting that he was able to return shortly before the holidays.
Still, the neighborhood has changed dramatically. Many residents chose to sell their properties after the fires, leaving the area unusually quiet.
“It’s so quiet at night,” Minds said. “You can drive down Sunset Boulevard at 9 p.m. and not see another car.”
