A former child star has tragically died in the devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles.
Rory Callum Sykes, 32, was reported dead after a fire broke out at his home. His mother, Shelley, released an emotional statement confirming his death, sharing the heartbreak of the tragedy.
It is believed Rory was trapped inside a self-contained cottage near Malibu when the fire occurred. In a statement to 10 News, Shelley recalled her desperate efforts to help, saying: “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.”
Shelley also recounted driving a quarter of a mile to get help, but tragically, firefighters later informed her that Rory had died from carbon monoxide poisoning.
Rory was a known figure in the entertainment industry for hosting the British RTV show Kiddy Kapers in 1998. Born blind and diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Rory had overcome numerous challenges in his life, including regaining his sight and learning to walk.
In a heartfelt tribute posted on Twitter/X, Shelley wrote: “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 heartbroken. British born Australian living in America, a wonderful son, a gift born on mine and his grandmas birthday 29 July 92, Rory Callum Sykes.”
She ended her message by writing, “He will be incredibly missed by @shelleysykes, mama, his pet peacocks Edgee and Mickie, and all his online fans around the world!”
Fans and followers responded with condolences to Shelley’s post, mourning the loss of the former child star.
