New Mexico Firefighter Seriously Injured

Volunteer firefighter Jessica Leon, of the Belen, New Mexico, Fire Department, was seriously injured June 11, 2001, when the engine she was operating at a barn fire rolled forward while pumping. DeLeon had put the rear-mounted pump in gear and increased the RPM's when the vehicle somehow kicked into gear and began rolling forward. (The engine is supposed to be unable to be in road gear while pumping.)

According to news reports, DeLeon attempted to get into the vehicle's cab in order to stop it, and was pinned between the door of the cab and a fence. The engine continued to move forward, pushing DeLeon along the fence, until another firefighter managed to get into the cab through a window and cut off the engine.

DeLeon suffered rib and pelvic fractures, and internal injuries. She was initially listed in critical condition and placed on a respirator, though her condition was upgraded to serious within a few days. DeLeon, who is 32, has been a firefighter for the past three years and works as a correctional officer at a local prison.

Donations to help with Jessica DeLeon's medical and living expenses during her long recovery can be made to any Wells Fargo Bank, to account number 1352415889. Get-well cards can be sent in care of the Belen Fire Department, 100 S. Main St., Belen NM 87002.