Watch CBS News

Nickerson Gardens honors founder's legacy after descendent dies in Eaton Fire

Nickerson Gardens community holds candlelight vigil for founder's grandson who died in Eaton Fire
Nickerson Gardens community holds candlelight vigil for founder's grandson who died in Eaton Fire 02:23

The Nickerson Gardens neighborhood held a candlelight vigil to honor Rodney Nickerson, whose grandfather founded the largest public housing community in Los Angeles. 

"What tonight is about here in South Los Angeles is that there are no borders," LAPD Deputy Chief Emada Tingirides said. 

Nickerson died inside of his Altadena home during the Eaton Fire. Kimiko Nickerson said her father Rodney insisted on staying in their family home that he purchased in 1968 for $5.

"We found his bones, his whole body was intact," Kimiko said.

kimiko-nickerson.jpg
Kimiko Nickerson stands in front of what used to be her childhood home in Altadena, where her father Rodney Nickerson was found dead in his bed after the Eaton Fire raged through his neighborhood. KCALNews

The Nickerson family is deeply rooted in the Los Angeles community. Kimiko said her great-grandfather, William Nickerson was the founder and owner of Nickerson Gardens in Watts, the largest public housing development in Los Angeles.

"We just want to show the love for the William Nickerson family and thank them; because of them our community exists," organizer Donny Joubert said. 

The Eaton Fire decimated neighborhoods in Altadena and Pasadena, making it one of the deadliest in California's history. More than 7,000 structures have been damaged or destroyed and 16 deaths have been reported. 

It is also one of the top 20 most destructive wildfires in the state and fire officials said Tuesday that the 14,117-acre blaze has reached 35% containment. 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.