08/29/2026
Today, the Torrance Fire Department recognized a powerful example of what can happen when ordinary people take extraordinary action.
When an individual suffered a sudden cardiac arrest during a local fitness class, bystanders immediately called 911, began CPR, and used an automated external defibrillator. The dispatcher provided calm, clear instructions while those at the scene delivered lifesaving care and TFD personnel responded.
Upon arrival, TFD personnel quickly assumed care and provided advanced lifesaving interventions. At Torrance Memorial Medical Center, emergency department nurses and physicians, along with the cardiac surgery team, seamlessly continued that care. Each link in the chain of survival worked together to provide this individual with another chance at life.
Today’s SAVE event recognized and reunited the bystanders, dispatcher, first responders, nurses, physicians, and hospital staff involved in this remarkable effort. Each recipient received the TFD SAVE Coin, representing Service, Action, Valor, and Excellence.
We were honored to recognize:
Bystanders:
Ariana Tyksinski
Joshua Fritz
Xanthe Dominguez
Marielena Fernandez
TPD Dispatcher:
Brianna Bowen
TFD RA91:
Firefighter/Paramedic Michael Strosnider
Firefighter/Paramedic Vincent Lopiccolo
TFD E92:
Captain James Duarte
Engineer Robert C***s
Firefighter Frankie Sanchez
Firefighter Salomon Sandoval
TFD BLS92:
Ambulance Operator James Moore
Ambulance Operator Dylan Del Rosario
Torrance Memorial Medical Center:
Thekla Ron, RN, MICN
Brittany Murphy, RN
Dr. Brett Lorber, Emergency Department Physician
Dr. Aziz Ghaly, Director of Cardiac Surgery
No single person saved this life alone. This outcome was made possible by a complete chain of survival, with each person answering the call and working toward a common goal.
Thank you for embodying the very best of emergency care, teamwork, and public service.
