MADERA, Calif. — A potential nightmare for a group of California parents was narrowly avoided thanks to the quick thinking and bravery of two unexpected heroes. When the entire community was worried about the safety of their children, these two men stepped up with courage and determination, saving the lives of 20 local school students.
On Tuesday, Carlos Perea Romero and Angel Zarco were officially honored by the Madera County Board of Supervisors in a special ceremony, which expressed deep gratitude for their heroism. This recognition came after the brave actions of the two men who evacuated the students from a school bus that had caught fire on the way to school on September 4.
A press release from the ceremony stated: “All students made it out safely without any injuries due to the immediate actions of the farmworkers and the bus driver. The Board of Supervisors recognizes these two men for their selfless courage and bravery, demonstrating the highest ideals of public service, as well as compassion and community spirit.”
September 4 began as a typical workday for Perea and Zarco, until Perea noticed smoke coming from a Madera Unified school bus. Alarmed immediately, they didn’t waste a moment and took the necessary steps to prevent a tragedy.
“We were just making sure the kids were far enough away so that they wouldn’t get hurt,” Zarco said. “One more moment, and I don’t know what would have happened,” Romero added in a post from Madera County.
Zarco also added, “I’m just happy to help the community. This is where I grew up, and I’m proud that I could keep someone safe.”
They alerted the driver and began evacuating the students inside the bus, moving through thick plumes of smoke to reach the children in the back rows. Moments later, the bus was completely engulfed in rapidly growing flames.
“The bus caught fire immediately, probably within two or three minutes. It all happened very fast,” Zarco added.
The two men had met by chance at an intersection to fix a broken tractor, but Perea now believes it was no coincidence. “God put you in that place for a reason. It was to help the kids, to help the community right there,” Perea said.
The bus was left charred, and its bright yellow paint turned to ashy gray, leaving a vivid reminder of what could have happened.
CAL FIRE Division Chief Larry Pendarvis expressed gratitude for the men’s courageous actions: “Buses can be replaced, humans cannot,” he said.
Perea and Zarco are now forever recognized as heroes in their hometown. Perea’s daughter was also present at the ceremony, and he said being honored for such an extraordinary act in front of her meant everything to him.
Madera County Sheriff Tyson Pogue told ABC that Romero and Zarco’s actions helped protect the local community. “We are profoundly grateful to these two farmworkers whose heroic actions saved the lives of more than 20 children. Their quick thinking, bravery, and compassion in the face of danger represent the very best of Madera County. Without hesitation, they selflessly acted to protect others. Our community is stronger because of individuals like them, and we are proud of their extraordinary heroism,” he said.
The incident not only highlighted the bravery of the two men but also underscored the importance of community, cooperation, and civic responsibility. It serves as a reminder that even in dangerous situations, immediate action and courageous decisions can make the difference between tragedy and salvation.
The ceremony and recognition of Perea and Zarco reinforced the message that every individual has the power to change the lives of others through bold and honest actions. Their work, beyond saving the children’s lives, stands as an inspiring example for the entire Madera community and beyond.