Deputies save 100-year-old woman during Altadena wildfire evacuation

On January 8, 2023, two deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Nicholas Martinez and Quinn Alkonis, responded to the urgent evacuation order for an elderly living center in Altadena, California, due to the rapid spread of the Eaton Fire. The fire, which began in Eaton Canyon, quickly threatened thousands of residences, leading to the deployment of law enforcement to ensure that vulnerable residents could evacuate safely. Without power in the building, the deputies used flashlights to navigate the dark hallways while calling out for remaining individuals. As the deputies searched the building, they heard a faint voice coming from a distant hallway, which prompted them to investigate further. They discovered a 100-year-old woman who was disoriented and struggling to escape. She explained that she was deaf and had not heard the evacuation alerts because her hearing aids were charging at the onset of the fire. The deputies reassured her as they led her away from imminent danger, responding to her fearful pleading with promises of safety. Additionally, another resident who had just returned from walking her dog informed the deputies of the woman trapped inside, further motivating their urgent search efforts. The deputies successfully escorted both women out of the building amidst the chaos and uncertainty caused by the wildfire. Sheriff Robert Luna praised the deputies for their courageous actions under pressure, highlighting their dedication to service in a critical situation where every moment counted. The department emphasized that the swift response of Martinez and Alkonis exemplified the high standards expected of law enforcement and underscored their commitment to saving lives in dangerous conditions, ultimately showcasing the selflessness that is fundamental to their duty.