Woman receives Vancouver police bravery award for saving man set on fire, helping identify suspect

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 26, 2026

Photo courtesy: Vancouver Police Department

What began as an ordinary afternoon in downtown Vancouver turned into a life-saving act of courage for Marina Pereira, who stepped in to help a stranger who had been set on fire and then helped police locate the suspected attacker.

Pereira was near Abbott and West Pender streets on the afternoon of August 20, 2024, waiting for her husband when she witnessed a man approach a person sleeping in an alley, pour liquid on him and set him on fire before walking away.

Rather than remain at a distance, Pereira rushed toward the victim and used her backpack to extinguish the flames.

She then made another risky decision: she followed the suspect and kept him in sight.

When two patrol officers drove by moments later, Pereira flagged them down, told them what had happened and pointed out the man she had been following.

Police later said the suspect had a history of similar criminal acts, including setting fire to a makeshift shelter while people were sleeping inside.

Pereira’s actions were credited with helping prevent the victim from suffering more serious injuries and allowing officers to quickly identify and take the suspect into custody.

Her response stood out because she was not a police officer or emergency responder, but a civilian who suddenly found herself in the middle of a dangerous situation and chose to act.

For her quick thinking and courage in rescuing the victim and assisting police, Pereira was awarded the Vancouver Police Board’s Award of Merit, its highest recognition for civilian bravery.

The award recognizes civilians who take extraordinary action in the face of danger, and Pereira’s case reflects exactly that — an ordinary person making a split-second decision that may have saved a life and prevented further harm.