Javea honours hero who gave his life saving neighbours in devastating apartment fire

There are moments when courage cannot be measured by medals or words. In the face of unimaginable danger, some people instinctively put others before themselves, knowing the risks but acting anyway. That was the legacy of Gersón Andrés Rincón Murillo, whose selfless actions during the deadly Javea Park apartment fire touched an entire community and continue to inspire months later.

Javea’s highest honour

On Friday, Javea paid its highest civic tribute by awarding the Medalla de Oro de la Vila de Xàbia posthumously to Rincón, recognising the extraordinary bravery that cost him his life while helping others escape the blaze. The award is the highest distinction the town council can bestow.

The fatal fire broke out on February 12 at an apartment building in the Javea Park area, claiming two lives. After ensuring his own family had reached safety, Rincón made the remarkable decision to return to the smoke-filled building.

According to local authorities, he went door to door warning neighbours and helping residents evacuate before being overcome by the fire. His actions are credited with helping save numerous lives, although he tragically never made it out himself.

An emotional tribute

The medal was presented during an emotional ceremony in the Town Hall, attended by councillors, Local Police officers, Guardia Civil, Civil Protection volunteers, the Red Cross and many of the emergency responders who took part in the rescue operation. The event was also streamed live so Rincón’s relatives in Colombia could witness the tribute.

One of the ceremony’s most moving moments came when family members shared a video celebrating his life, recalling treasured memories from both Colombia and the years he spent living in Javea.

Mayor Rosa Cardona presented the medal to his wife, Paula Gutiérrez, and daughter, Pamela Andrea Rincón. Speaking on behalf of the family, Pamela thanked the people of Javea for the compassion and support they have shown since the tragedy, describing the town as a united and caring community.

“He followed his heart”

The ceremony was led by Local Police officers Toni Soler and Elena Torres, who were among the first emergency responders to arrive at the burning building. They recalled witnessing Rincón’s determination to help others despite the immense danger.

They described him as a humble, selfless man who acted out of compassion rather than concern for his own safety. “He did what his heart told him,” they said, explaining that his actions reflected extraordinary humanity in the darkest of moments.

Closing the ceremony, Mayor Cardona said there are people whose actions define them in a single moment, and Gersón Andrés Rincón Murillo was one of them.

She acknowledged that no medal could ever replace a husband, father or friend, but said the honour represents the gratitude of an entire community determined never to forget the man whose final act was to save the lives of others. His courage, she said, will remain forever part of Javea’s history.