Vallarta Market Fire

Los Angeles Firefighters responded to a major emergency structure fire at the Vallarta Market at 16107 Victory Blvd. in Van Nuys. Fire conditions were extremely dangerous. The fire intensified and firefighters were ordered out of the structure. In his efforts to exit the building, Firefighter Enrique Graciano became disoriented and was unable to find his way out of the building. He activated his emergency procedure to acquire help. Fire conditions inside in the market were getting fire threatening.

Upon hearing Firefighter Graciano’s emergency traffic via the radio and realizing that a Firefighter was trapped inside the building. Apparatus Operator Jody Garfield who had just exited the building quickly re-entered the involved structure. He crawled on his hands and knees through the increased heat and absolute zero visibility and found Graciano. Following behind Apparatus Operator Garfield was FF Robert Martinez who entered the building to join the search. Apparatus Operator Garfield found Firefighter Graciano and physically assisted him in retreating out of the building.

Once all three Firefighters exited the building the entire market flashed with an intense fireball. Now the building was fully involved with fire. All three were safe due to the efforts of these two brave firefighters who disregarded their own safety to rescue a fellow firefighter.

For his efforts to save the life of Firefighter Graciano the Medal of Merit is presented to Firefighter Robert Martinez. For his unselfish effort and for his demonstrated bravery at great personal risk to his life, the Medal of Valor is presented to Apparatus Operator Jody Garfield.