Among the many properties destroyed by the Palisades fire in Los Angeles, one $9 million house stood untouched. David Steiner, the homeowner, believes there is a clear reason his house survived while others around it did not.
Sadly, the fires have scorched over 20,000 acres. Firefighters have managed to put out three of the eight wildfires so far. Over 5,000 buildings, including homes, businesses, and landmarks, have been lost.
Authorities believe the Kenneth fire, which threatens homes near Calabasas and Hidden Hills, was intentionally set. A suspect, seen riding a bike and carrying a torch, was trying to ignite trash cans and old Christmas trees. Locals detained him until the police arrived.
Several celebrities, including Anna Faris, Eugene Levy, Paris Hilton, and Billy Crystal, lost their homes in the fires.
David Steiner, a retired businessman, was surprised his home remained standing. On January 7, a local contractor sent him a video, showing his neighbor’s house engulfed in flames. Steiner thought his home would not survive.
“The contractor saw the news and said, ‘Your house is next,’” Steiner told the New York Post. But soon after, Steiner started receiving calls and pictures, revealing that his home had been spared.
“My wife sent me a message saying, ‘Last house standing,’ and it brought a smile during a tough time,” Steiner shared.
He attributes the survival of his home to its sturdy construction, designed like a cruise ship. “It’s built to withstand earthquakes with stucco, stone, and a fireproof roof. The pilings go 50 feet into the bedrock,” he explained.
Steiner admitted he never expected a wildfire to reach the Pacific Coast Highway and threaten his home. “I thought it would be the last to go in an earthquake, not a fire.”
Though grateful, Steiner reflected on the losses others faced. When people texted their prayers, he reminded them that he only lost a property, not a home filled with family memories. He emphasized, “We need to pray for those who lost their homes.”
