Clovis PD Brings Great-Great Grandmother to Safety in Auberry Evacuation

By David Taub, Senior Reporter

Published 5 years ago on

September 7, 2020

The evacuation of the Auberry area created some tense moments for Debra Jean Rios and her 92 year-old mother this morning.

Rios was at work at the U.S. Forest Service office in Prather when the order came for Auberry residents to leave because of the fast-spreading Creek Fire.

Mom was Stranded at Auberry Home

Rios’ elderly mother lives with her at her home on Backbone Mountain, just east of the threatened town. But, because of the closure of Auberry Road, Rios was not allowed to race home to bring her mom to safety.

That’s when officers from the Clovis Police Department stepped in. They went to Rios’ house and gave her mom a ride down the mountain, where the two were soon reunited.

She’ll be staying with other relatives for the time being, Rios said, noting that her mom just recently celebrated the news that she’s become a great-great grandmother.

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David Taub,

Senior Reporter

Curiosity drives David Taub. The award-winning journalist might be shy, but feels mighty with a recorder in his hand. He doesn't see it his job to "hold public officials accountable," but does see it to provide readers (and voters) the information needed to make intelligent choices. Taub has been honored with several writing awards from the California News Publishers Association. He's just happy to have his stories read. Joining GV Wire in 2016, Taub covers politics, government and elections, mainly in the Fresno/Clovis area. He also writes columns about local eateries (Appetite for Fresno), pro wrestling (Off the Bottom Rope), and media (Media Man). Prior to joining the online news source, Taub worked as a radio producer for KMJ and PowerTalk 96.7 in Fresno. He also worked as an assignment editor for KCOY-TV in Santa Maria, California, and KSEE-TV in Fresno. He has also worked behind the scenes for several sports broadcasts, including the NCAA basketball tournament, and the Super Bowl. When not spending time with his family, Taub loves to officially score Fresno Grizzlies games. Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area, Taub is a die-hard Giants and 49ers fan. He graduated from the University of Michigan with dual degrees in communications and political science. Go Blue! You can contact David at 559-492-4037 or at Send an Email