Heroic Rescue: Quick Thinking Saves a Life from a Burning Car

Oct 25, 2024

Heroic Rescue: How Quick Thinking Saved a Life from a Burning Car

In a split second, an ordinary day outside GPI Defense’s office turned into a life-or-death situation. A severe car accident left one vehicle engulfed in flames, threatening the life of a young man trapped inside.

The quick actions of GPI Defense’s Director of Operations, Lisa Iturri, and several bystanders saved him from disaster.

While emergencies like these are unpredictable, this incident exemplifies how heroic rescues and immediate action can mean the difference between life and death. It also underscores the values we live by, like protection, readiness, and community care.

 

Lisa Iturri, Director of Operations at GPI Defense, standing in front of the GPI Defense office after a heroic rescue from a burning car

 

The Emergency Unfolds

It was an otherwise typical day at the GPI Defense office when a violent car crash suddenly erupted just outside the building.

One vehicle, severely damaged in the wreck, began to catch fire, with a young man still trapped inside.

Time was of the essence.

Without hesitation, Lisa Iturri ran through oncoming traffic toward the burning vehicle. Working alongside another bystander, they pulled the man from the wreckage just as the fire intensified.

The situation could have easily turned tragic had it not been for their fast response.

The actions taken in those critical moments exemplify what happens when preparedness, quick thinking, and bravery converge.

 

A Heroic Rescue in Action

With the young man pulled from the car, the fire continued to grow.

It was then that GPI Defense’s JR Donovan stepped in, quickly grabbing a fire extinguisher from the office. Along with the help of a tow truck driver and a nearby store employee, JR worked to put out the flames, which had spread to the car’s engine. It took three fire extinguishers to fully contain the blaze.

Meanwhile, GPI Defense dispatcher, Chrystal Price, called 911 and ensured emergency services were on the way.

This coordinated effort from multiple individuals highlights the importance of teamwork and readiness in critical moments, especially in emergencies like how to respond to car accidents or fires.

Each person had a role to play, and their collaboration kept a bad situation from turning catastrophic.

 

Teamwork Saves Lives

The success of the rescue was not the result of one person’s actions, but rather a collective effort.

  • Lisa directed another bystander to help her move the injured man away from the burning car.
  • JR Donovan, with the help of others, extinguished the flames.
  • Chrystal stayed on the phone with 911, providing vital information while offering assistance at the scene.

This collaboration highlights the power of teamwork and quick decision-making. It’s a reminder that in moments of crisis, every action matters… and that preparedness can turn bystanders into heroes.

 

Gratitude from the Victim

The outcome of the incident could have been drastically different, but thanks to the swift actions of everyone involved, the young man survived.

The following day, he and his mother visited the GPI Defense office to personally thank Lisa for her heroic efforts and for staying by his side until help arrived. Their gratitude was a powerful reminder of the impact quick thinking and teamwork can have in saving lives.

Knowing that their actions made such a difference brought immense joy to the GPI Defense team and reaffirmed the importance of their commitment to protecting others.

 

Why Preparedness Matters: A Lesson in Crisis Response

This rescue story is more than just a heroic moment – it’s a testament to the importance of being ready for the unexpected.

At GPI Defense, we’ve built our entire approach around the concept of preparedness, and this incident highlights why it’s so crucial. Emergencies can arise at any time, and the ability to act quickly can save lives, protect property, and prevent further harm.

From guarding facilities to stepping into life-saving roles, we believe in being ready for anything. The quick actions taken that day exemplify the core values we strive to uphold every day:

  • Protection
  • Teamwork
  • Readiness

 

A Lasting Impact: A Reminder of Our Commitment

This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the difference preparedness can make in moments of crisis. At GPI Defense, we pride ourselves on being ready for any situation, whether it’s ensuring the safety of an oilfield or stepping into a life-saving role during an emergency. It’s moments like these that reinforce our mission: to protect people, property, and our community.

We are more than just a security company… we are protectors at heart, ready to respond when it matters most!

Protecting lives and securing operations is at the heart of what we do here at GPI Defense.

Whether it’s in crisis response or everyday security, we are committed to being ready for any emergency.

Contact us today to learn more about how our team can safeguard your business, your people, and your assets.

GPI Defense

“At GPI Defense, we protect more than just property… we actually safeguard your business from financial risks, theft, and legal liabilities.”