Huge flames erupted overnight in Southeast Fresno, neighbor jumps into action to save home

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Salpi Toutikian is married to a man, now known as the bravest on Bush Street.

"He just got the hose and put the ladder and started hosing," said Toutikian.

He is not a firefighter, but when flames started shooting out of the abandoned home next door, he jumped into action and Toutikian started recording.

"I was afraid, I was in shock but I'm happy he did it."

He drenched the fence and his lawn, and then aimed for the fire -- holding off the 30 to 40 foot flames, long enough for firefighters to show up and take over.

Laura Rocha lives across the street.

"He was brave for trying to do that -- I don't think I would have. I would just stay back," said Rocha.

Most people stood back--even firefighters had to be careful. This is the view from the opposite side as a power pole and transmission lines burned. Spray cans also caused explosions. No one was inside -- Toutikian 's husband did not get hurt and the flames did not spread to their home.

"He's my hero," said Toutikian.

He is a hero for the second time.

"Yeah, and I love him a lot."

Toutikian says the same home caught fire a couple years ago, and her husband did the same thing.

"He can't help it -- he sees something, he needs to help. He needs to do something."

She is hoping this will be the last fire and the abandoned home will be demolished.