NH cab driver called a hero after saving 5 children from fire

NASHUA, N.H. — A New Hampshire cab driver is making national headlines after pulling people, including several children, from a burning building.

Frank Figueroa was on a usual morning route when he pulled onto Central Street and saw smoke pouring from the eaves of the house.

“I didn't think about myself, it's gut reaction, I just automatically let nature take its course,” he said.

Figueroa threw the car in park, called his dispatcher, and then ran in

“I just started banging on doors I kicked one open and banged on the other doors,” he said.

As fire ate through the roof, Figueroa ran from unit to unit, pulling out confused residents - including five children, who were home alone as smoke filled their apartment.

Figueroa kept the kids warm in his car - while fire crews arrived to put out the flames.

Thanks to Figueroa, fire officials say everyone escaped.

“Whether the house was empty or not, I would have stopped anyway. I would hope that somebody in the future if it ever happens to me, that they would do it for me,” he said.

Figueroa is a father of two, he says part of the reason he didn't hesitate to run and help is because he imagined it could have been his family inside.

He says he got all the recognition he needed Monday when those five kids told him thank you after he rescued them.

The families are who live here are out of their homes tonight as they wait for repairs to be made. But still, they say they are thankful that they have each other, safe and sound.

Cox Media Group