In Altadena, Calif., a man documents burned cars from wildfires, shares owners’ stories, and raises funds to replace lost vehicles through community events.
LA Wildfires Destroy Thousands of Cars in Altadena
ALTADENA, Calif. – The LA wildfires destroyed thousands of cars. Many of these vehicles were more than just a means of transportation.
Documenting the Loss
Dave Stone has spent the past year documenting every burned car he has encountered.
Community Stories
Stone said, “I said ‘what if I could also tell the stories of the owners’ and bring something to the community to help people remember what happened up here?” He wanted to connect the heavy images of the cars with the stories and passion of their owners.
He has shared these stories on his Instagram page.
Taking Ownership
Stone referred to the EPA’s tags on gas-powered cars after the fire, saying, “Not EV.” He added, “I took the tag that the EPA put on all the cars and I made it ours. I wanted to take ownership back of the fire.”
He has found art in the scars left by the flames.
Building a Community
Stone has created a community through a weekly car club called Altadena Cars and Coffee. This club meets once a week.
He has also raised money to help replace some of the lost cars.
Upcoming Fundraiser
Stone mentioned a project for a member named Hippo, who lost his 1972 Datsun 510. He said, “It’s a 4-door automatic, it’s going to be a tough one to find.”
This week’s Altadena Cars and Coffee meetup will be a fundraiser for Hippo. It will take place at 749 E. Altadena Drive, in the old Rite Aid parking lot, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
| Event | Date | Location | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altadena Cars and Coffee Fundraiser | This Week | 749 E. Altadena Drive | 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. |
