RM Two Good Samaritans Honored for Rescuing Students from Burning School Bus in California
MADERA, Calif. — What could have been a tragic day for many California families turned into a story of courage and quick action, thanks to two unexpected heroes.
On Tuesday, the Madera County Board of Supervisors and other local leaders recognized Carlos Perea Romero and Angel Zarco for their bravery in saving 20 schoolchildren from a burning bus on September 4.
According to a county press release, “All the students made it out safely without injuries due to the immediate action of the farmworkers and the bus driver. The Board of Supervisors commends the two men for their courage and selflessness, which reflect the highest values of public service, compassion, and community spirit.”
What began as a normal workday for Perea and Zarco quickly changed when Perea spotted smoke coming from a Madera Unified school bus. Without hesitation, both men rushed toward the danger to help.
“We just wanted to make sure the kids were far enough away so they wouldn’t get hurt,” Zarco recalled.
“One more moment, and I don’t know what would have happened,” Romero added in a post from Madera County.
Zarco expressed his gratitude for being able to help: “I’m just happy to give back to the community where I grew up. I’m glad I could keep someone safe.”
Together, they alerted the driver and began evacuating the children, pushing through thick smoke to reach those seated at the back. Within minutes, the bus was engulfed in flames.
“The bus caught fire right away — maybe within two or three minutes. It all happened so fast,” Zarco said.
The two had originally met at the intersection to fix a broken tractor, but Perea believes their presence there was no accident. “God put us in that place for a reason — to help those kids and the community,” he said.
After the fire, the once bright yellow bus was left completely charred and gray. CAL FIRE Division Chief Larry Pendarvis praised the men’s quick actions, saying, “Buses can be replaced — humans can’t.”
Now, Perea and Zarco are celebrated as hometown heroes. Perea’s daughter attended the ceremony, making the recognition even more meaningful for him.
Madera County Sheriff Tyson Pogue also expressed deep gratitude for their actions: “We are profoundly thankful to the two farmworkers whose bravery saved more than 20 children. Their quick thinking, courage, and compassion represent the very best of Madera County. Without hesitation, they acted selflessly to protect others. Our community is stronger because of people like them, and we are proud of their extraordinary heroism.”
