Child star dies in LA wildfires after mum's desperate attempts to save him

Rory Callum Sykes, a former child star, tragically died in the Los Angeles wildfires aged 32, after being trapped in a cottage near Malibu. His mother, Shelley, shared the heartbreaking news.

By: irishmirror.ie

Jan 11 2025
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Child star dies in LA wildfire

A child star has died in the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. Rory Callum Sykes' mum released a heartbreaking statement to share the news her 32-year-old son had died in a blaze at his home.

It's thought Rory was trapped inside a self-contained cottage near Malibu when it caught fire. His mother Shelley tragically told 10 News: "I couldn’t put out the cinders on his roof with a hose because the water was switched off. When the fire department brought me back, his cottage was burnt to the ground. He will be incredibly missed."

Reports claim Shelley had been forced to drive a quarter of a mile in her desperate bid for help after being unable to reach 911 on the phone. Sadly, firefighters later informed her that her son had died from carbon monoxide poisoning.

Rory had hosted British RTV show Kiddy Kapers back in 1998. He was blind from birth and had been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. His mum had previously said his condition had meant he had "overcome so much" in his life, including "therapies to regain his sight and to be able to learn how to walk."

In a touching tribute following his passing, Shelley took to Twitter/X to write: "It is with great sadness that I have to announce the death of my beautiful son @Rorysykes to the Malibu fires yesterday. I’m totally heart broken. British born Australian living in America, a wonderful son, a gift born on mine & his grandmas birthday 29 July 92, Rory Callum Sykes." She concluded her tribute by writing: "He will be incredibly missed by @shelleysykes, mama his pet peacocks Edgee & Mickie & all his online fans around the world!"

Rory Callum Sykes has died (Image: Mirror)

Fans and Shelley's followers also paid tribute to the star by replying to the post. One user wrote: "RIP @rorysykes. May God give you and family the strength to bear the great loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you."

Another added: "I’m so sorry to read this news. What a traumatic experience for both of you. Sending my condolences," while a third wrote: "It's heartbreaking and devastating....if the water had been turned on the fire fighters may have had a chance, he may well still be here."

The New York Post has reported that his death is not part of the official death toll caused by the LA fires. Reports claim at least 11 other people have lost their lives so far due to the devastating fires. Thousands of homes have also been burned to the ground, with civilians and celebrities alike losing their properties.

Among them is Paris Hilton, who said she could only watch on live TV as her home was destroyed. Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were also spotted trying to console people who had lost their homes. The Sussexes are said to have provided welfare parcels for those affected.

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