Kenneth and Hurst Fires Fully Contained, Investigations Underway

Fire officials announced Thursday, January 16, 2025, that both the Kenneth and Hurst fires, which burned across Los Angeles and Ventura counties, are now fully contained. The two wildfires collectively consumed over 2,000 acres of brush and posed threats to nearby communities. Thanks to the combined efforts of firefighters, containment lines have held strong, preventing further damage.

Kenneth Fire Overview

• Location: Victory Boulevard west of Gilmore Street, West Hills

• Start Date: January 9, 2025, at 3:34 PM

• Size: Over 1,000 acres

• Containment Date: January 12, 2025

• Cause: Under investigation

The Kenneth Fire was fueled by strong Santa Ana winds with gusts reaching 100 miles per hour, which accelerated its spread toward Calabasas and Hidden Hills. Firefighters worked tirelessly to establish containment lines and conduct water drops to halt the fire’s progression.

A “person of interest” in the Kenneth Fire has been identified as 33-year-old Juan Manuel Sierra, who was arrested on January 11 after being caught with a blowtorch near the fire’s origin. Sierra has not been charged with starting the fire but is under investigation while being held on probation violations.

Authorities are also examining a potential connection to electrical equipment after Southern California Edison reported a downed conductor near the fire’s starting point.

Hurst Fire Overview

• Location: Near Westlake Boulevard and Potrero Road, Thousand Oaks

• Start Date: January 10, 2025, at 4:12 PM

• Size: Approximately 1,200 acres

• Containment Date: January 15, 2025

• Cause: Under investigation

The Hurst Fire began a day after the Kenneth Fire, sparking concerns as it quickly grew under similar Santa Ana wind conditions. The blaze threatened homes and wildlife in Thousand Oaks and surrounding areas. Crews from the Ventura County Fire Department led the firefighting efforts, supported by local law enforcement and volunteer organizations.

No injuries or major structural damage have been reported, though officials continue to assess the fire’s impact on the local environment. Investigators are looking into possible causes, with preliminary reports suggesting a downed tree impacting electrical lines as a potential factor.

Recovery Efforts and Support

The Red Cross has established a Family Assistance Center to support those affected by both fires. Residents in need of assistance or looking to inform family members of their safety can contact the Red Cross at (800) 675-5799.

A United Response

These two fires, part of a series of wildfires exacerbated by extreme Santa Ana winds, tested the resilience of Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Unified efforts by firefighting teams, law enforcement, and local communities have been crucial in bringing both fires under control.

While the Kenneth and Hurst fires are now contained, officials remind residents to remain vigilant as fire danger remains high in Southern California during this dry and windy season. Investigations into the causes of both fires are ongoing, with updates expected in the coming weeks.