UPS Driver Heroically Rescues 101-Year-Old Woman from Santa Ana Condo Fire
January 20, 2026
Esquivel minimized his role, saying he was just doing what was right and that he didn’t seek attention for helping during the emergency.
Firefighters extinguished the fire and transported the elderly woman to a hospital for evaluation, with her son hopeful for a full recovery.
Firefighters arrived, contained the fire, and prevented it from spreading to the attic while securing the scene.
UPS did not immediately respond to requests for comment about the incident.
A UPS driver, Willy Esquivel, helped rescue a 101-year-old woman from a burning Santa Ana condo, carrying her out after she hesitated to evacuate.
Neighbors noticed the smoke, knocked on the door, and assisted in guiding the woman toward safety before firefighters arrived.
The incident occurred in Orange County and was reported on January 20, 2026, highlighting community vigilance and rapid action during a dangerous blaze.
Firefighters arrived in time to assist after the rescue, showing a coordinated effort between bystanders and emergency responders.
The rescue involved a UPS driver in Santa Ana on January 15, near Los Angeles, amid a condo fire.
A neighbor who was a roofer used a ladder and garden hose to spray water into the kitchen vent to help control the fire.
The elderly woman was taken to a local hospital for evaluation; her condition was not immediately known.
Officials described the rescue as a remarkable outcome made possible by quick action, teamwork, and neighbors looking out for one another.
Summary based on 9 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Jan 19, 2026
‘Remarkable’ UPS driver ran into burning home to save woman, 101
Live 5 News WCSC • Jan 20, 2026
UPS driver, neighbors save 101-year-old woman from house fire
WBTV • Jan 20, 2026
UPS driver, neighbors save 101-year-old woman from house fire
https://www.wbtv.com • Jan 20, 2026
UPS driver, neighbors save 101-year-old woman from house fire