Wildfires are tearing through Los Angeles, forcing thousands to flee to safety and destroying modest homes and vast mansions. As the fires rage on, powerful images tell stories of fear, desperation and solidarity in the sprawling California city.

Some fled by foot, some by car and some by the grace of good Samaritans. Thousands of residents made harrowing escapes as devastating wildfires bore down on the Los Angeles area.

As residents in the Los Angeles area grapple with the ongoing realities of the devastating wildfires ravaging the densely populated metropolis nestled between the Pacific Ocean and mountain ranges, several iconic landmarks and beloved local institutions have fallen victim to the flames.

Flames from the Palisades Fire surrounded the car Aaron Samson and his 83-year-old father-in-law, who has Parkinson's disease, were in as they tried to escape.