Stunning 'before and after' images of California wildfires at historic state parks: 'Devastating'

According to a news release from California State Parks, the historic home of movie cowboy legend Will Rogers and buildings at Topanga State Park were destroyed by the wildfires in Los Angeles.

In the 1930s, the highest-paid actor in Hollywood resided at At Will Rogers State Historic Park, which is located in Santa Monica, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Unfortunately, the home was destroyed.

Pictures from California State Parks revealed the extent of the destruction at the ranch, with only fireplaces remaining standing.

The release stated that Will Rogers SHP's horses and cultural and historical artifacts, including artwork, were evacuated by State Parks ahead of the fire.

The Topanga Ranch Motel and concession buildings were destroyed at Topanga State Park, according to the agency.

More than 30 buildings were engulfed in the fire, including the houses of park employees, according to the release.

State Parks Director Armando Quintero expressed his condolences for the loss of natural and cultural resources in California State Parks due to the devastating fires in the Los Angeles area.

Staff members of California State Parks are on site, working to recover artifacts and evaluate the extent of the damage.

"We have been directing all available resources into the emergency response effort since Tuesday afternoon and working to secure and protect nearby state parks. We are grateful to our parks staff and partner agencies for their quick actions. Our top priority is the safety of the public, our employees, and the firefighters bravely battling the fires."

Six wildfires were burning in Los Angeles County as of Wednesday afternoon, affecting the Pacific Palisades and Sylmar neighborhoods of Los Angeles and a third near Pasadena.

As of Wednesday afternoon, five individuals had perished in the Eaton Fire, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna.