Rory Callum Sykes, a former child star, tragically lost his life in the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, his mother, Shelley Sykes, announced.
“It is with great sadness that I have to announce the death of my beautiful son to the Malibu fires yesterday,” Shelley shared on X, formerly Twitter, on Thursday.
The Tragedy
The wildfires sweeping through Southern California this week have caused immense destruction, claiming at least 11 lives. Among them is Rory Callum Sykes, whose passing underscores the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities during emergencies. Born blind and with cerebral palsy, the 32-year-old was unable to escape in time.
Sykes, an Australian native, gained fame as a child on the British TV show Kiddy Kapers, hosted by his mother. Despite his disabilities, he underwent surgeries and therapies to regain his sight and mobility. “He overcame so much… Despite the pain, he still enthused about traveling the world with me from Africa to Antarctica,” Shelley wrote.
Circumstances of the Incident
Sykes had been living in a cottage on his family’s Malibu estate when the wildfires broke out. According to Shelley, their efforts to extinguish the flames were hindered by a water shutoff by Las Virgenes Municipal Water.
“I couldn’t put out the cinders on his roof with a hose because the water was switched off. Even the 50 brave firefighters had no water all day,” she explained.
Authorities have labeled the fires in Pacific Palisades and Eaton as some of the most destructive in California’s history.
Also Read – California Man Dies Fighting Eaton Fire: Sister Shares Heartbreaking Final Moments
Tributes and Reactions
Heartfelt messages have poured in from fans and friends. Shelley Sykes posted a moving tribute on X: “I’m totally heartbroken. British-born Australian living in America, a wonderful son, a gift born on mine & his grandma’s birthday.”
Author Neil Strauss added, “Some lost their homes and some lost so much more. Sending love, prayers, and condolences to the family of @rorysykes in Malibu.”
Calls for Action
Advocacy groups have called for improved emergency response measures for disabled individuals, emphasizing that tragedies like Sykes’ death might have been preventable with better planning and infrastructure.
As the fires continue to spread, California authorities warn the death toll could rise. Emergency responders remain focused on containment efforts, while impacted families face the daunting task of recovery.
Shelley Sykes has requested privacy as she grieves the loss of her son. Meanwhile, Rory Callum Sykes is being remembered for his resilience, adventurous spirit, and the joy he brought to those who knew him.
