The Esperanza Fire, a devastating wildfire that erupted in Riverside County, California, on October 26, 2006, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by wildland firefighters. Among the many fire engines deployed to combat this blaze, Bdf Engine 57 from the San Bernardino National Forest played a central, and ultimately tragic, role. This article delves into the events surrounding the Esperanza Fire, with a specific focus on the deployment, actions, and ultimate sacrifice of the crew of BDF Engine 57. Understanding the details of this incident is crucial for learning valuable lessons in wildland firefighting strategy, safety protocols, and the ever-present threat of extreme fire behavior.
The Esperanza Fire ignited in Cabazon, California, at the base of the San Jacinto Mountains in the early morning hours. Fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, high temperatures, and low humidity, the fire rapidly escalated. Initial attack resources, including engines from CAL FIRE, were quickly dispatched. As the fire grew, it became clear that this was a major wind-driven event, requiring additional resources. Among those requested were five Type III fire engines from the San Bernardino National Forest (BDF), including Engine 57.
At approximately 1:43 a.m., BDF dispatch requested Engines 51, 52, 54, 56, and 57 to respond. These engines, based out of the San Jacinto Ranger District, were initially directed to the Incident Command Post (ICP) in Cabazon before being reassigned to structure protection in the Twin Pines area, a community identified as being at extreme risk from wildfire. The urgency of the situation was underscored by the rapidly expanding fire and the ongoing evacuation of Twin Pines residents.
The four engines, excluding Engine 51 which was diverted to another fire start, proceeded towards Twin Pines. Navigating through chaotic conditions with fleeing residents and congested roads, Engines 52 and 57 arrived at the staging area first. They were instructed by CAL FIRE personnel to proceed down Wonderview and Gorgonio View Roads to assess and protect structures in the lower Twin Pines basin.
Engine 52 and Engine 57 were tasked with structure triage in the lower Twin Pines area. Engine 52 stopped at a residence where a resident refused to evacuate, while Engine 57 continued further down Wonderview Road, eventually reaching the junction of Venison Road. After assessing the area, the captain of Engine 57 communicated with Engine 52, suggesting a location at the “Tile House” (49550 Venison Road) could accommodate two engines. However, Engine 57 proceeded to another location at 15400 Gorgonio View Road, known as the “Octagon House,” identifying it as a defensible space with a pool as a potential water source.
Meanwhile, Engines 54, 56, and MB-10, joined later by Engine 51, were also directed to Wonderview Road. However, they found the road inaccessible due to the fire’s rapid spread. Simultaneously, the fire reached Engine 52’s location at the Tile House, forcing them to take defensive actions. These engines then rerouted to Gorgonio View Road to continue structure protection, eventually arriving at a doublewide mobile home (Doublewide).
Engines 51, 54, and 56, along with MB-10, positioned themselves at the Doublewide, while Engine 57 remained at the Octagon House further down Gorgonio View Road. Concerns about their escape route being cut off and the terrain being a “bowl” were discussed among the crews on a Forest Service tactical radio frequency.
A Branch Director, checking on the crews, found Engine 57 at the Octagon House. He instructed them to don their protective gear and discussed the fire situation and lookout opportunities. The fire was still progressing towards Twin Pines Road, but a critical shift was imminent.
Between 6:45 and 6:50 a.m., the fire situation deteriorated rapidly. Engine 52 Captain informed Engine 56 Captain about increased fire activity below them. Engine 57 Captain then contacted Engine 51 Captain, suggesting they initiate a burnout operation around the Doublewide. Unsuccessful in contacting command via radio, Engines 51, 54, 56, and MB-10 proceeded with the burnout to protect their position at the Doublewide. As the main fire front arrived at approximately 7:15 a.m., firefighters at the Doublewide took refuge in their engines.
Tragically, attempts to contact Engine 57 around 7:15 a.m. were unsuccessful. As conditions improved around 7:57 a.m., Engine 51 and 52 Captains made their way to Engine 57’s location and discovered the burnover. An emergency call for assistance was made, and despite initial confusion, medevac helicopters were dispatched. However, it was too late for the crew of BDF Engine 57. Three firefighters perished in the line of duty.
The Esperanza Fire, despite the tragic loss of the BDF Engine 57 crew, ultimately led to the safe evacuation of many residents and was eventually contained after consuming over 41,000 acres. The incident prompted extensive investigations and reviews, leading to crucial lessons regarding wildland firefighting tactics, communication, and safety protocols. The sacrifice of the BDF Engine 57 crew serves as a solemn reminder of the risks inherent in wildland firefighting and the importance of continuous learning and improvement in fire management practices.
