> At a Glance
> – Patty Phillips’ SUV became trapped on a boulder during the Palisades Fire
> – LA County Fire Capt. Malcom Dicks located her after her husband’s plea
> – The 23,700-acre fire destroyed over 6,800 structures and claimed 12 lives
> – Why it matters: The story highlights the heroism of first responders during California’s third-most destructive wildfire
Patty Phillips survived the devastating Palisades Fire after becoming trapped in her SUV, thanks to the quick actions of a Los Angeles County Fire captain. A boulder outside her Malibu home now serves as a permanent reminder of her harrowing escape.
Trapped in the Flames
Phillips attempted to evacuate with her 10-year-old dog while flames surrounded her property. Thick smoke and fire completely obscured her vision, causing her to drive onto a dirt driveway where her vehicle became stuck on a boulder.
She spent 40 minutes trapped in her SUV, unable to reach 911 or send text messages. “I was literally blinded by the flames and the smoke,” Phillips recalled. “I was in the middle of fire.”
The Rescue Mission
While Phillips fought for survival, her husband James encountered Fire Capt. Malcom Dicks on Pacific Coast Highway. Dicks, who leads the department’s urban search and rescue operation, immediately agreed to drive into the burning area to find her.
The rescue team located Phillips by following her vehicle’s horn and flashing hazard lights. “That’s how they found me, with me honking the horn and my flashers on,” Phillips said.
Aftermath and Recognition
The Palisades Fire ultimately consumed 23,700 acres, destroyed more than 6,800 structures, and caused 12 deaths. Phillips’ home survived the blaze, though many neighboring properties were lost.
Phillips retrieved the boulder that disabled her SUV and placed it outside her home with a commemorative plaque honoring Dicks’ heroism. The captain has received recognition at various public events, including the Grand Prix of Long Beach.
Key Takeaways
- The Palisades Fire ranks as California’s third-most destructive wildfire in recorded history
- First responders risked their lives to save residents during the emergency
- Phillips uses the boulder as a healing reminder to express gratitude
- The fire destroyed thousands of structures while claiming 12 lives
The reunion between Phillips and Dicks one year after the disaster underscores the lasting bonds formed during life-threatening emergencies.
