A college student's beloved retro blue Volkswagen van miraculously survived the devastating Palisades fire in Malibu, bringing a glimmer of joy amidst the destruction. The 1977 Volkswagen Type 2, affectionately named Azul, had been used as a living space by the student during his senior year at the University of California, Santa Barbara.
The student, now a surfboard maker, had sold the van to a friend and business partner who designs surf and skateboards. The van was parked in a Malibu neighborhood when the fire broke out, engulfing homes and cars in its path. Despite the intense blaze, Azul remained unscathed, standing out as a beacon of hope amid the charred landscape.
The van's survival was discovered by the new owner, who received a photo of Azul still intact amidst the devastation. The news spread quickly, with the vibrant blue van capturing the hearts of many who saw the image on television and online.
Both the former and current owners of the van expressed their astonishment and gratitude for its miraculous survival. They were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and joy from the public, who found solace in the van's resilience amidst the destruction caused by the fire.
While the area remains closed to the public, preventing the new owner from visiting Azul, the van continues to serve as a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Its story has touched the hearts of many, reminding us that even in the midst of tragedy, there can be moments of unexpected beauty and survival.
