He described it as “pure chaos.” Back in January as embers flew around and ash took over Altadena skies during the height of the Eaton Fire, Pasadena Police Department Officer Chrystian Banuelos was one of hundreds of first responders helping the community during the emergency.
As residents raced to safety while trying to beat the speed of the flames on the morning of Jan. 8, Banuelos bravely saved an elderly woman by carrying her out of her home during the blaze. Months later, he was able to meet the thankful children of the woman he saved.
The children of Laverna Sharpe, 101, embraced Banuelos this week, happy they were finally able to express their gratitude for his heroic actions. The 31-year-old officer’s rescue was captured in a widely circulated image as he carried Banuelos to safety. Newly shared body camera footage showed the moment he carefully picked Sharpe up from her bed and saved her…