California Man Injured While Helping Pregnant Woman Escape Apartment Fire

A California man is facing a long recovery after helping an eight-month-pregnant woman escape a burning apartment in Riverside, then being thrown from a second-story window during the incident.

Brian Jackson, 48, was visiting a friend at an apartment building in downtown Riverside on September 16 when a fire broke out. Jackson said the flames spread rapidly, filling the apartment with smoke.

As residents tried to escape, Jackson noticed a pregnant woman attempting to climb out of a second-story window. He said she told him she was eight months pregnant, and he urged her not to jump because of the distance to the ground.

Jackson tried to help her get out safely. A passerby also arrived with a ladder, which was used to help the woman escape. Jackson, however, was still inside when an explosion occurred, according to his account, throwing him from the building.

Jackson was taken to Riverside Community Hospital with severe injuries. His family said he suffered broken legs and ankles and lost feeling in his right foot. Doctors have warned that he could require one or possibly two amputations, although they are still working to save his legs.

Despite his injuries, Jackson’s first concern after waking up was reportedly whether the pregnant woman and her unborn baby were safe. His stepdaughter, Maia Gutierrez, said he immediately asked about them rather than focusing on himself.

Jackson has five stepdaughters and five granddaughters. His family says he now faces multiple surgeries, physical therapy and a lengthy recovery. Because he cannot work, relatives have also started a fundraising campaign to help with medical and living expenses.

Jackson himself has played down the idea that he is a hero. Speaking from his hospital bed, he said he was simply trying to help someone who was in danger.

The pregnant woman was successfully rescued, but Jackson has not yet been reunited with her. He said he hopes to learn that she and her baby are doing well.

The Riverside Fire Department said firefighters arrived shortly after 2:15 a.m. and found the second-floor apartment heavily involved in fire. Five civilians and one firefighter were transported to hospitals. The department said the investigation into the cause of the fire is continuing; Jackson’s family’s account that a battery was involved has not been independently confirmed by fire officials.

For Jackson, the incident has turned a split-second decision to help a stranger into a potentially life-changing recovery. His family now hopes he will be able to keep both legs and eventually return to the active life he had before the fire.

Sources:
ABC News – Southern California man injured after helping pregnant woman escape fire
Los Angeles Times – Brian Jackson’s recovery after Riverside apartment fire
CBS Los Angeles – Man who helped pregnant woman faces possible double amputation