About the Archive
A community archive preserving the visual history of one of the most destructive wildfires in Los Angeles history. Created so this moment is not forgotten.
The Fire
On January 7, 2025, a wind-driven fire ignited in the Santa Monica Mountains during an extreme Santa Ana wind event. Over 24 days, it swept through Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu—burning 23,448 acres and destroying 6,837 structures.
This archive contains 2,359 photos and videos documenting the fire's progression, the evacuation, and the aftermath—sourced from residents, journalists, CAL FIRE, and community members.
About the Creator
Rex Kirshner started collecting these images on January 7th while watching the smoke column grow from across the city. Within days, friends and strangers were sending videos of Sunset Boulevard gridlocked, houses burning on Marquez, the Recreation Center engulfed in flames. He built this archive so none of it would be lost.
Palisades born and raised. Village School/St. Matthew's/Pali High alum, Benton's and Village Books shopper, Jacopo's/Mogan's/Taj Palace diner, Jerry Blanck's and Amazing Music student. Misses his home.