Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger today honored nine Camp Glenn Rockey staff members during the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Public Hearing meeting for their extraordinary courage and quick thinking in rescuing three family members following a vehicle accident that occurred during the Ellie Fire in San Dimas.
“These nine County employees demonstrated extraordinary courage under incredibly difficult circumstances,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “While responding to the challenges of a nearby wildfire and continuing their responsibilities to protect youth at Camp Glenn Rockey, they did not hesitate to risk their own safety to help complete strangers. Their selflessness and steady leadership saved lives. Their actions deserve to be recognized.”
On June 13, 2026, the Ellie Fire ignited approximately two miles west of Camp Glenn Rockey. Camp staff immediately implemented emergency protocols to protect youth at the facility while visitors were asked to leave the property as a precaution.
Just moments later, a family departing after visiting their child experienced a catastrophic accident when their vehicle malfunctioned while backing out of the parking lot, sending it down a hillside where it landed on its side and trapped the occupants.
Deputy Probation Officer Abel Lopez was the first to arrive at the scene after witnessing the crash. He immediately rushed to the vehicle, broke a window, and helped rescue the injured mother. Department of Mental Health Clinician Jessica Pelayo, a volunteer with the San Dimas Sheriff’s Station Search and Rescue Team, quickly joined the effort.
Senior General Maintenance Workers Gabriel Ortiz and Edward Pinowar, along with General Services Managers Nicholas Swartz and Alfonso Avila, brought tools to help free the grandparents who remained trapped inside the vehicle. Supervising Deputy Probation Officers Adrienne Steward and Julio Garcia coordinated the emergency response while simultaneously managing the ongoing wildfire situation and preparing the camp for a potential evacuation. Deputy Probation Officer Norma Haibel also assisted by serving as a translator between the injured mother and emergency personnel. First responders soon arrived and safely transported all three family members for medical treatment.
“The actions of these employees reflect the very best of public service,” said Chief Probation Officer Guillermo Viera Rosa. “Faced with two emergencies unfolding at the same time, they remained calm, worked together, and put the safety of others above all else. Their professionalism, courage, and compassion exemplify the values of the Los Angeles County Probation Department, and we are deeply grateful to Supervisor Barger and the Board of Supervisors for recognizing their outstanding service.”
During today’s Board meeting, Supervisor Barger presented certificates of commendation to Deputy Probation Officer Abel Lopez, Department of Mental Health Clinician Jessica Pelayo, Senior General Maintenance Workers Gabriel Ortiz and Edward Pinowar, General Services Managers Nicholas Swartz and Alfonso Avila, Supervising Deputy Probation Officers Adrienne Steward and Julio Garcia, and Deputy Probation Officer Norma Haibel in recognition of their heroism and dedication to serving Los Angeles County residents.
The employees were recognized for their teamwork and commitment to protecting others under extraordinary circumstances.