-Editorial
Two residents were rescued on Dec. 30 from a residential fire in Calexico after police officers entered a smoke-filled home where occupants were reported trapped, authorities said.
Calexico police officers were dispatched at about 1:39 p.m. to a report of a structure fire at a residence in the 200 block of Encinas Avenue. Information provided to dispatch indicated that two people were inside the home and unable to escape.
Upon arrival, officers observed heavy smoke coming from the residence and heard residents calling for help from inside, according to police. Sgt. Oscar Ruiz and Officer Gustavo Coronado entered the home, crawling through the smoke, and located an elderly resident who was paralyzed. The individual was removed from the residence and brought to safety.
Shortly afterward, Coronado, along with Officer Victor Garate, re-entered the home and rescued a second occupant, identified as an adult with a developmental disability. Both rescues occurred before the fire was fully extinguished, police said.
Calexico firefighters later contained and extinguished the blaze. The cause of the fire was determined to be electrical in nature and originated in the kitchen area of the home.
Both residents were transported to El Centro Regional Medical Center for medical evaluation and treatment. Two police officers were treated at the scene for smoke inhalation. Authorities said all individuals involved are expected to make a full recovery.
Police officials credited the coordinated response of officers and firefighters for preventing more serious injuries or loss of life.
