Simi Valley haunted house lives on
Kyle Killips was told to tear down his Simi Valley haunted house, and he did. But, after Simi residents flooded the city with complaints, officials did an about-face. Now, Killips is rebuilding in time to have the free home-based attraction up and running for Halloween weekend. (Eric Parsons / For The Times)
Props fill every nook and cranny as Killips reassembles his Simi haunt. The city asked for the structure to be dismantled after an anonymous complaint, says City Manager Mike Sedell. He said there were legitimate concerns, especially as the attraction had grown in popularity. When you have 1,000 people going through, we pay attention, Sedell said. The last thing anything want is a disaster out there because of a fire. (Eric Parsons / For The Times)
Killips has an elaborate collection of ghouls, mummies and other props that he’s gathered in the eight years he’s put on the display with his mom, Cindy Fike. At the city’s request, Killips will add two more exits to the “Haunted Hills” and more fire extinguishers and will make sure all materials are flame-resistant. (Eric Parsons / For The Times)
A replica of a Martian from the movie “Mars Attacks!” rests on the front porch of Kyle Killips’ Simi Valley home. Killips says he’s probably spent $15,000 over the years on life-size figures and other aspects of the haunted house. (Eric Parsons / For The Times)
Killips explains how pneumatic valves and sensors animate props in the homemade Halloween attraction. (Eric Parsons / For The Times)
Neighbors and friends are giving Killips a hand -- even hanging up a leg -- to put the display together quickly. It will be a race and Im not sure well be able to do everything, the homeowner said. Theres a lot of prep work involved. (Eric Parsons / For The Times)
As Killips piles on the scary stuff, City Manager Sedell says the city’s intention isn’t to spoil the fun: The goal is to make sure it happens in a safe and wholesome way. (Eric Parsons / For The Times)
