The initiation of the procedure to award the Police Merit Cross with Red Badge to Local Police officers José Miguel Díaz García and Francisco Martínez Medina has been overwhelmingly approved by the Alicante City Council Plenary Session. This honour is granted in appreciation of their exceptional rescue and assistance efforts during a fire on Calle Padre Esplá in the Carolinas Altas neighbourhood.
The ground floor of a structure that was home to a kebab restaurant was affected by the fire that took place on November 29th, 2024. The fire produced a dense haze of smoke that engulfed the stairwell, enclosing two individuals, one of whom had limited mobility, on the second floor. In an intervention that was essential to the victims’ physical safety, both officers entered the building upon hearing pleas for help, overcoming the toxicity of the smoke and poor visibility. They were able to evacuate the victims.
The action necessitated medical attention from the SAMU (National Police Service) at the site for one of the officers. It was fortunate that he did not require hospitalisation. In a statement dated April 15th, 2025, the Local Police Headquarters commended the officers for their “professionalism, quick reaction, and courage.” The Chief Superintendent also issued an individual commendation to them.
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