A Temecula family displaced by a February mudslide is asking the community for support as they fight to save their multigenerational home from foreclosure.
The Locklin family — Kevin, Lisa, their three daughters, and their golden retriever — were forced out of their residence after a mudslide, which they attributed to improper drainage and erosion control from a Brookfield Residential development behind their property, severely damaged the house.
The family’s home, built in 1943, has been in the Locklin family for four generations and holds deep historical significance in the Temecula region.
Developer dispute adds to strain
According to friends, Brookfield Residential initially acknowledged responsibility and agreed to cover the extensive demolition and restoration costs. However, the developer has since failed to compensate either the family or the local restoration company that completed emergency repairs.
The unpaid bills have resulted in a lien against the Locklins’ home, leaving the family burdened with mortgage payments on a property they cannot live in — and at risk of losing it altogether.
Living displaced
For the past eight months, the family has relied on relatives for housing. With many of their belongings still in storage, they have received no assistance for temporary accommodations.
A close friend of the Locklin’s described the situation and took to Instagram to share a testimonial, which we’ve captured here for Valley News readers:
“Earlier in February of this year, my dearly beloved friends were displaced from their home when the rain poured and a destructive mudslide severely damaged their property. The damage is traced directly to the new Brookfield SoCal residential development in construction behind their property. Brookfield acknowledged responsibility and assured the family that the damages and repairs would be covered. However, neither the Locklin family nor the local restoration company (that acted quickly to mitigate the loss) has received any compensation. We’re hoping they make this right by their neighbors and change that.”
GoFundMe launched
To help offset costs and prevent foreclosure, family friends Erica and Gabriel Johnson have organized a GoFundMe campaign on the Locklins’ behalf. Funds will go toward restoration costs, recovering belongings, and securing the family’s home.
Brookfield Properties was called for this story, but no response was received.
The Johnsons called the Locklins “among the most gracious, compassionate, and generous people we know,” noting their longtime service in local ministry and their impact in the community.
The GoFundMe, titled “Locklins Need Our Help,” is open for donations.
For more information or to donate, visit: GoFundMe.com and search “Locklins Need Our Help.”
