Cause of Paradise Cove fire still unknown

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The two victims of the fire cannot live in their homes, but they have found temporary places to live through the generosity of community members.

By Darian Lane / Special to The Malibu Times

The June 7 fire that destroyed one home in Paradise Cove Mobilehome Park and damaged another is still under investigation. Detective Gary Spence of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Arson/Explosive detail said it will be a little while longer before a cause of the blaze could be determined.

“Physical samples from the scene have been sent to the laboratory and I’m still waiting for the results,” Spence said on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Bob Shore, the uninsured homeowner whose residence was destroyed in the fire, has been left homeless and he lost all of his belongings except the shirt on his back. Had his house been insured, the maximum coverage for the house would have been $25,000 and $50,000 for its contents. Despite costly renovations, the house was valued at $25,000 due to its age.

“It’s like an old car with new rims, new stereo, paint job and spoiler; yet it’s still an old car,” Shore said.

The Malibu Riviera Motel is providing free lodging for Shore. And John LaLanne, a local surfboard shaper, has set up a fund for Shore. Similar generosity has been extended to Barbara Rude, the owner of the adjacent home that was partially destroyed by the fire and declared uninhabitable. She has been living with friends in Paradise Cove.

Rude said she was amazed by how many people in Malibu have come to her aid. “It shows that Malibu as a community and individuals always come together,” Rude said. “I hope that later on when things settle and start to make more sense, I will be able to show my appreciation for the honor of Malibu.”

Los Angeles County Fire Department’s Station No. 71 was alerted about the fire at approximately 12:30 p.m. on June 7. Once the firefighters arrived, it took them 10 minutes to extinguish the blaze.

Many Paradise Cove residents said they were grateful that there was no wind blowing on the day of the fire.

“It could have easily spread like wild fire throughout the Cove and ignited everybody’s house,” said one resident who asked not to be identified.

Those wishing to assist Rude can do so by sending money or The Home Depot and Costco gift cards to the Malibu United Methodist Church, located 30128 Morning View Drive. For further information, contact Diane Welch at 589.1964.

Gift certificates, checks and extra-large clothing for Bob Shore can be mailed to 28128 Pacific Coast Highway, #153, Malibu, CA 90265. A name and address should be included so a letter of appreciation can be sent.