SANTA ANA : Firefighter Honored for Saving Two Lives

Firefighter Lorenzo Abundiz had always been popular at Fire Station 3, where he was once best known as an irrepressible practical joker and the undefeated burrito eating champion.

Now, Abundiz is best known as a hero.

This week, the 15-year Fire Department veteran was honored by the Santa Ana City Council for saving the lives of two fellow firefighters during a blaze that destroyed the B.F. Goodrich store at Bristol and 1st streets.

While fighting the fire, a portion of the building’s burning facade fell on top of firefighters Mark Eide and Dennis Atencio and trapped them.

Abundiz, 37, heard Eide’s cries for help, lifted the heavy debris and the men were able to escape.

“He is a hero in no uncertain terms,” said Eide, 28. “Another 30 seconds and I wouldn’t be here today. The air was just too hot to breathe and the flames were in my face. I had written myself off and literally saw my life flash before my eyes. He got me out with seconds to spare.”

“Larry’s a lot stronger than most guys but it is still hard to believe that he was able to lift that off of us,” Atencio added. “I thought it would take at least four guys to lift it off.”

Capt. Brian Schreckler said he wasn’t at all surprised by Abundiz’s actions.

“I think he’s a fireman’s fireman,” Schreckler said. “He’s the kind of guy firemen like to work with because they like to know that if they’re in trouble, a guy like Larry will be there to help them.”

Abundiz said he is “shocked” by the amount of attention his act of heroism has attracted. This week, in addition to being recognized by the council, Abundiz received a letter of congratulations from state Sen. John Seymour (R-Anaheim) and received a call from the producers of the television series “Rescue 911,” who have expressed interest in re-creating the incident for a future segment.

But Abundiz said the “nicest recognition” came in the form of a card from Eide’s parents, who thanked him for making it possible for their son to be around this Thanksgiving.

“I’m just glad that Mark and Dennis are still here,” he said. “If I had to do it again, I would.”