Freddy Fire Near Leo Carrillo State Beach Contained at 5 Acres

A vegetation fire dubbed the Freddy Fire, which sparked near Leo Carrillo State Beach in Malibu, California, was contained at 5 acres on Monday, Jan. 8. The fire, reported at 12:48 p.m., posed potential threats to nearby structures and prompted a swift response from firefighters.

Located one mile north of the intersection of Mulholland Highway and Pacific Coast Highway, the fire paralleled PCH and exhibited a moderate rate of spread. Two superscoopers, two helicopters, and additional fixed-wing aircraft were initially dispatched to combat the blaze. However, by 1:33 p.m., forward progress of the fire was halted, and most air support was canceled, with one helicopter remaining to manage the situation.

The Freddy Fire occurred near the border of Ventura and Los Angeles counties, leading to emergency notifications being sent to residents in both areas. Communication challenges between Los Angeles County and Ventura County firefighters were reported due to separate fires in each jurisdiction, but these issues were resolved by 1:30 p.m. Ventura responders coordinated efforts on Channel 5, the Central/Oxnard Plains Command frequency.

Firefighters battling the nearby Palisades Fire were redirected to assist with the Freddy Fire. The incident highlights the ongoing wildfire risks in Southern California, particularly during dry winter months.