Dick Van Dyke and wife Arlene, along with most of their pets, have been safely evacuated from their Malibu home amid the Franklin Fire.
Sadly, one of the couple’s cats is still missing.
Taking to Facebook, the actor and entertainer shared with fans and followers, “Arlene and I have safely evacuated with our animals except for Bobo escaped as we were leaving.
“We’re praying he’ll be ok and that our community in Serra Retreat will survive these terrible fires.”
Witnesses say that the house in which Dick Van Dyke resides was spared from the flames, while a home across the streets burned down.
The actor’s Facebook feed was flooded by words of prayers and support.
“Animals have incredible survival instincts,” someone wrote. “Bobo will find safety and then will find his way back to you.”
Another person added, “Cats are so resourceful. They can survive what people can’t. Sending good thoughts your kitty is ok and you’re reunited soon.”
A third person commented, “How terrible these wildfires are. Hands go out to all of the Firefighters and First Responders for their aid. As well as the American Blue Cross. Praying that you and your family are safe, as well as your animals, Mr. Van Dyke. Prayers for the whole community. ✝️🛐♋”
As per The New York Times, more than 27,000 acres of land have been engulfed by the Franklin fire as of Tuesday afternoon.
The fire erupted on Monday, December 9.
As of now, over 20,000 Malibu residents are under evacuation orders and warnings. Over 1,500 firefighters battle the fire under challenging conditions of low humidity and rugged terrain.
Other celebrities who own homes in or around the affected area, except for Dick Van Dyke, are Mark Hamill, Barbra Streisand, and Cher.
Cher’s publicist shared that the singer evacuated at a hotel together with her pets on Monday.
Joe Sirard of the National Weather Service in Los Angeles said, “It’s just a very dangerous situation. The crews are obviously doing their best to fight the fire, but it’s still hard to contain at this time.”
According to Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone, the fire destroyed at least seven structures and damaged eight.
“Damage inspection teams have been assigned to the incident, and they will assist with a more accurate accounting of incident losses tomorrow,” he told USA Today.
As of now, parts of the Pacific Coast Highway remain closed, with access restricted to residents and evacuees.
