Senior Captain Edward Escamilla has been discharged from Memorial Hermann’s Dunn Burn Unit, marking a significant milestone in the recovery of the firefighters involved in the January apartment fire on Jarmese Street. His return home comes after a harrowing rescue operation.
Escamilla was met with a Wall of Honor formed by Houston firefighters, who showed their respect with a salute as he walked out of the hospital with his family.
The Wall of Honor as he steps out… pic.twitter.com/nAwQpcKE85
— Houston Fire Dept (@HoustonFire) February 8, 2025
PREVIOUS: Firefighters battling large apartment fire in southwest Houston
On January 7, Captain Escamilla, along with firefighters Darren Jones and Jonathan Guzman, became trapped behind a door during the blaze. Their bravery, despite the life-threatening situation, led to the rescue of several lives. They were treated at Memorial Hermann Hospital’s burn unit, where their conditions were closely monitored.
HE’S GOING HOME! Senior Captain Escamilla rings the bell to celebrate his discharge from the Dunn Burn Unit at @memorialhermann. He is the final firefighter to be released following the flashover at the apartment fire on Jarmese in January. pic.twitter.com/eZ5sq6FWvF
— Houston Fire Dept (@HoustonFire) February 8, 2025
The fire, which broke out around 5:30 a.m. at an apartment complex near Sunnyside, spread quickly, consuming two units and prompting an urgent evacuation. Residents described the chaos, with one recalling how firefighters knocked down her door to save her family.
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As the fire spread, the firefighters entered the building to search for anyone still trapped. Inside one unit, they became trapped by a heavy door, prompting a Mayday call for rescue.
Captain Escamilla’s discharge marks another chapter in a long road to recovery for those involved. His return home, alongside the ongoing recovery of his fellow firefighters, serves as a reminder of the courage and dedication that defines the Houston Fire Department.
