On an evening in late November 2022, Paramedic Bill Weber and his partner made a discovery that would eventually result in Weber rescuing multiple people from a fire. It happened when the two EMS professionals were returning from a long-distance transfer. That’s when they noticed a strong orange glow around the community of Desert Hills. When the two went to investigate, they realized they were the first ones on-scene of a multiple-vehicle fire that was adjacent to a mobile home park, which was also beginning to catch on fire.
“We were driving around the corner and saw another fire. A big motor home and a van were fully engulfed, and they were right against a mobile home and other things,” Weber said.
As Weber, a former firefighter, exited the ambulance, several bystanders stated there were occupants in the mobile home who were trapped. Knowing he had little time to act, Weber entered the mobile home to find multiple occupants still inside. He directed everyone to exit the structure, but two elderly residents were unable to quickly move.
“It was a spur-of-the-moment decision. I went in and put the female in a fireman’s carry and got her across the street and out of harm’s way. The male was a little more difficult to get out. My partner helped me get him across the street.”
Weber’s quick actions ensured all four occupants were out of the structure and unharmed. He then assumed medical command and coordinated with the incoming ambulances to provide care.
Weber said he is honored to be recognized as one of the 2023 Stars of Life, which he was awarded for saving the lives of those four people. “I appreciate being selected for this recognition. When I happened upon the fire, I was able to quickly assess the situation and render aid. Sometimes, you are in the right place at the right time.”