It didn't take long for the flames to engulf the entire home at Appleton and Yorkshire. With only seconds to spare, the father and son went into action. They casually knew the family they were helping, but after their heroic actions, that family wants to get to know them better.
When Joaquin Hernandez saw the damage up close, it was overwhelming.
"I almost fell right here," said Hernandez.
And to think his two-year-old nephew was trapped inside the house, the thought of what could have happened left him speechless.
"I don't have any words to explain it," said Hernandez.
As flames and smoke poured out of the home on Wednesday afternoon, a desperate mother cried for help. Her two-year-old son was inside.
Sergio Martinez and his son heard the scream. He said that without hesitation, his 12-year-old son broke a bedroom window with his foot. His mother said he didn't want the child to die.
The smoke was thick, but they managed to make the rescue and escape with only minor injuries, leaving both his father and the Houston Fire Department proud.
"He ought to be called a hero. He did a fine job," said District Chief Thomas Ponce.
Joaquin Hernandez is eternally grateful for the boy's bravery.
"I want to see him and tell him thank you," said Hernandez who hopes to do that soon.
Two-year-old Daniel Hernandez is still being evaluated at the hospital. We're told he suffered minor smoke inhalation.
The 12-year-old also went to the hospital. He had some minor cuts.
As for the cause of the fire, it appears it was caused by faulty electrical wiring.
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