Four Honored For Heroism In Contra Costa County

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA — The Contra Costa Sheriff's Office recognized four people for heroism — one a sergeant and three men who saved the life of an AC Transit bus driver attacked by her husband.

Joseph Hoberg, Ivan Munguia, and Mark Quintero received a commendation for citizen heroism for "extraordinary bravery and decisive action" during a violent incident in August on an AC Transit bus.

A man assaulted his wife, an AC Transit bus driver, following her work shift near the Richmond BART station. He was later charged with attempted murder.

Hoberg, Munguia, and Quintero were commended for acting swiftly and courageously in the face of extreme danger, preventing further harm and saving the victim’s life.

"The three of them intervened to stop a violent assault that threatened the life of a bus driver," Contra Costa Sheriff David Livingston said in a statement.

"Such selfless conduct exemplifies the highest traditions of citizenship, courage, and service to others," Livingston said. "Their willingness to act in defense of another reflects great credit upon themselves and serves as an inspiring example to all members of our community."

Certificate of Commendation
Sgt. Zeke Severs of the Contra County Sheriff's Office Air Support Unit received a Certificate of Commendation for his role in rescuing two boaters from the San Francisco Bay.

On March 1, Sgt. Severs "provided heroic life-saving actions" for two boaters after their vessel overturned in the bay.

The two were in the water for about 12 minutes without a flotation device.

Severs secured his harness and life jacket over his flight suit and attached himself to a short-haul line to be flown to the first boater in the county's STARR 3 helicopter piloted by John Meyer.

The second boater was underwater and appeared lifeless.

Both were lifted to medics ashore and taken to a hospital.

The sheriff praised Severs for his life-saving actions, dedication, and service to Contra Costa County.