In an act that exemplifies the bravery of our first responders, an off-duty Sonoma Sheriff's deputy has been hailed as a hero after saving a woman from a house engulfed in flames in Calistoga. According to official statements released by the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office, Deputy Aviña was at the right place at the right time on March 23 when he heard cries for help around 5:40 a.m. and witnessed the dire situation.
Deputy Aviña, whose quick thinking and courageous actions prevented a potential tragedy, first evacuated the residents of the neighboring house, which had started to catch fire. Then, after learning a woman was trapped inside the primary house, whose flames had utterly engulfed it, he broke down a side yard gate to gain entry. When he noticed a woman's head and hand reaching out through a dog door, locked from the inside, he kicked open the door with help from a Calistoga Police Officer and pulled her to safety.
"I'm proud of Deputy Aviña for acting quickly and saving this woman's life," Sheriff Eddie Engram was quoted, conveying the sentiment that Deputy Aviña's decisive and lifesaving actions are a testament to the culture and ethos of the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office. The rescued resident received immediate medical treatment, and, fortunately, Deputy Aviña did not sustain any injuries during the perilous rescue effort.
As the aftermath of the calamity unfolds, the Sheriff's Office has extended its sympathies to those affected by the fire. Recognizing the magnitude of the loss endured by those who have had their lives turned upended by the blaze, the Sheriff's Office expressed their relief that no lives were lost thanks to Deputy Aviña's heroism.
