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Garbageman saves 93-year-old from the Camp Fire by pulling her into his truck

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Max Resnik/KCRA

Published 9:39 am PST, Sunday, November 11, 2018

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Dane Ray Cummings and Margaret Newsum share a bond, one built around a service we all rely on.

Media: KCRA

This story originally appeared on KCRA.

As the Camp Fire encroached on Magalia, a 93-year-old woman stepped out on her front porch hoping someone might see her.

Then, her garbageman showed up.

As Butte County’s Camp Fire rapidly spread Thursday morning, Margaret Newsum began her day as she always does.

“I got up as usual, went in and had some oatmeal as usual, and I turned the TV on and then they said there was a fire going into Paradise,” she said.

Her caregiver, who lives in Paradise, was already gone for the day.

Newsum was alone with her two indoor cats. She has five others that live outdoors.

Fearing what was to come, she stepped outside. Moments later, a familiar face arrived in his brand-new truck.

“I went out and was standing on the front porch when this great, big, green monster drove up, and my dear friend was emptying the garbage, and I have had him as my worker — I call him my private worker because he’s so great — and he said, ‘You’re not staying here. You’ve got to get out of here. Why are you still here?'” she recalled.

That man was Dane Ray Cummings, a Waste Management driver.

After discovering Newsum had no family in the area and couldn’t reach her caregiver by phone, he decided to break company protocol and load her into his truck with the help of people nearby.

  • Margaret Newsum was rescued from the encroaching Camp Fire by her garbageman, Dane Ray Cummings.

    Margaret Newsum was rescued from the encroaching Camp Fire by her garbageman, Dane Ray Cummings.

    Photo: KCRA

  • A deer looks on from a burned residence after the Camp fire tore through the area in Paradise, California on November 10, 2018. – The death toll from the most destructive fire to hit California rose to 23 on November 10 as rescue workers recovered more bodies of people killed by the devastating blaze. Ten of the bodies were found in the town of Paradise while four were discovered in the Concow area, both in Butte County.

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    A deer looks on from a burned residence after the Camp fire tore through the area in Paradise, California on November 10, 2018. – The death toll from the most destructive fire to hit California rose to 23 on

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    Photo: JOSH EDELSON/AFP/Getty Images

  • BIG BEND, CA – NOVEMBER 10: The Camp Fire burns in the hills on November 10, 2018 near Big Bend, California. Fueled by high winds and low humidity the Camp Fire ripped through the town of Paradise charring 105,000 acres, killed 23 people and has destroyed over 6,700 homes and businesses. The fire is currently at 20 percent containment.

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    BIG BEND, CA – NOVEMBER 10: The Camp Fire burns in the hills on November 10, 2018 near Big Bend, California. Fueled by high winds and low humidity the Camp Fire ripped through the town of Paradise charring

    … more

    Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

  • PARADISE, CA – NOVEMBER 10: A Butte County sherriff deputy searches the property of a destroyed home for a reported Camp Fire victim on November 10, 2018 in Paradise, California. Fueled by high winds and low humidity, the rapidly spreading Camp Fire ripped through the town of Paradise and has quickly charred 100,000 acres and has destroyed over 6,700 homes and businesses in a matter of hours. The fire is currently at 20 percent containment.

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    PARADISE, CA – NOVEMBER 10: A Butte County sherriff deputy searches the property of a destroyed home for a reported Camp Fire victim on November 10, 2018 in Paradise, California. Fueled by high winds and low

    … more

    Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

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  • PARADISE, CA – NOVEMBER 10: Sheriff deputies walk through a neighborhood destroyed by the Camp Fire on November 10, 2018 near Paradise, California. Fueled by high winds and low humidity the Camp Fire ripped through the town of Paradise charring 105,000 acres, killed 23 people and has destroyed over 6,700 homes and businesses. The fire is currently at 20 percent containment.

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    PARADISE, CA – NOVEMBER 10: Sheriff deputies walk through a neighborhood destroyed by the Camp Fire on November 10, 2018 near Paradise, California. Fueled by high winds and low humidity the Camp Fire ripped

    … more

    Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

  • A chimney remains from a home burned in the Camp Fire, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Paradise, Calif.
    A chimney remains from a home burned in the Camp Fire, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Paradise, Calif.

    Photo: John Locher, AP

  • A burned pick-up truck rests on Pearson Rd. after the wildfire burned through Paradise, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Not much is left in Paradise after a ferocious wildfire roared through the Northern California town as residents fled and entire neighborhoods are leveled. less
    A burned pick-up truck rests on Pearson Rd. after the wildfire burned through Paradise, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Not much is left in Paradise after a ferocious wildfire roared through the Northern … more

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • Remains of the Paradise Elementary School after being gutted by the Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. on Friday, November 9, 2018.
    Remains of the Paradise Elementary School after being gutted by the Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. on Friday, November 9, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante / The Chronicle

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  • A Butte County Sheriff looks for fatalities following the Camp Fire in Paradise, California, on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018.
    A Butte County Sheriff looks for fatalities following the Camp Fire in Paradise, California, on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018.

    Photo: Gabrielle Lurie / The Chronicle

  • Firefighters walk through a charred neighborhood off Billie Road after the Camp Fire devastated the entire town of Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018.
    Firefighters walk through a charred neighborhood off Billie Road after the Camp Fire devastated the entire town of Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018.

    Photo: Jessica Christian / The Chronicle

  • Destroyed cars on Pearson Road after the Camp Fire tore through Paradise, Calif. on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018.
    Destroyed cars on Pearson Road after the Camp Fire tore through Paradise, Calif. on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018.

    Photo: Gabrielle Lurie / Staff

  • Bennett Josiassen works to corral eight horses left behind after the Camp Fire ripped through Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018.
    Bennett Josiassen works to corral eight horses left behind after the Camp Fire ripped through Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018.

    Photo: Jessica Christian / The Chronicle

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  • A deer walks past a destroyed home on Orrin Lane after the wildfire burned through Paradise, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Not much is left in Paradise after a ferocious wildfire roared through the Northern California town as residents fled and entire neighborhoods are leveled. less
    A deer walks past a destroyed home on Orrin Lane after the wildfire burned through Paradise, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Not much is left in Paradise after a ferocious wildfire roared through the … more

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • Abandoned cars, scorched by the wildfire, line Pearson Rd. in Paradise, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Not much is left in Paradise after a ferocious wildfire roared through the Northern California town as residents fled and entire neighborhoods are leveled. less
    Abandoned cars, scorched by the wildfire, line Pearson Rd. in Paradise, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Not much is left in Paradise after a ferocious wildfire roared through the Northern California town as … more

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • Leveled residences line a mobile home park on Edgewood Lane after the Camp Fire burned through Paradise, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Not much is left in Paradise after a ferocious wildfire roared through the Northern California town as residents fled and entire neighborhoods are leveled. less
    Leveled residences line a mobile home park on Edgewood Lane after the Camp Fire burned through Paradise, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Not much is left in Paradise after a ferocious wildfire roared … more

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • Firefighters plan their operations while battling the Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. The blaze that started Thursday outside the hilly town of Paradise has grown and destroyed more than 6,700 buildings, almost all of them homes, making it California’s most destructive wildfire since record-keeping began. But crews have made gains and the fire is partially contained, officials said Saturday. less
    Firefighters plan their operations while battling the Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. The blaze that started Thursday outside the hilly town of Paradise has grown and destroyed more … more

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

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  • Anna Lopez wears a protective breathing mask with other striking hotel workers making noise on the picket line in front of the Marriott Marquis in San Francisco, Calif. on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018. Air quality in the region remains unhealthy while smoke from the Camp Fire in Butte County continues to drift to the south. less
    Anna Lopez wears a protective breathing mask with other striking hotel workers making noise on the picket line in front of the Marriott Marquis in San Francisco, Calif. on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018. Air quality in … more

    Photo: Paul Chinn / The Chronicle

  • Eric England searches through a friend’s vehicle on Pearson Rd. after the wildfire burned through Paradise, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Not much is left in Paradise after a ferocious wildfire roared through the Northern California town as residents fled and entire neighborhoods are leveled. less
    Eric England searches through a friend’s vehicle on Pearson Rd. after the wildfire burned through Paradise, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Not much is left in Paradise after a ferocious wildfire roared … more

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • The Camp Fire burns along a ridgetop near Big Bend, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Sheriff’s investigators have begun the agonizing task of scouring through the wreckage of California’s most destructive fire on record in search of the dead. By Saturday, the death toll had reached over a dozen, but it seemed likely to climb. less
    The Camp Fire burns along a ridgetop near Big Bend, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Sheriff’s investigators have begun the agonizing task of scouring through the wreckage of California’s most destructive … more

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • Sheriff’s deputies recover the remains of Camp Fire victims on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Paradise, Calif..
    Sheriff’s deputies recover the remains of Camp Fire victims on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Paradise, Calif..

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

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  • The Camp Fire burns along a ridgetop near Big Bend, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Crews working to contain the blaze overnight faced deteriorating weather conditions according to CalFire as winds picked up and humidity dropped. less
    The Camp Fire burns along a ridgetop near Big Bend, Calif., on Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Crews working to contain the blaze overnight faced deteriorating weather conditions according to CalFire as winds picked … more

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • Sheriffs yell to drivers to evacuate the area off of Pentz Road during the Camp Fire in Paradise, California, on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.
    Sheriffs yell to drivers to evacuate the area off of Pentz Road during the Camp Fire in Paradise, California, on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.

    Photo: Gabrielle Lurie / The Chronicle

  • Mic McCrary, 27, sits on a motorized go-cart that he used to rescue his two dogs, pictures, as the Camp Fire devastated the entire town of Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. McCrary stayed in his home with 90-year-old Norma Weldon and her son, Brad, as the fire overtook their entire neighborhood while leaving his home untouched. less
    Mic McCrary, 27, sits on a motorized go-cart that he used to rescue his two dogs, pictures, as the Camp Fire devastated the entire town of Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. McCrary stayed in his home … more

    Photo: Jessica Christian / The Chronicle

  • Brad Weldon checks on his mother, Norma Weldon, 90, as they stay inside their home after the Camp Fire devastated the entire town of Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Weldon stayed in his home with his 90-year-old mother, Norma Weldon, and roommate, Mic McCrary, as the fire overtook their entire neighborhood while leaving his home untouched. less
    Brad Weldon checks on his mother, Norma Weldon, 90, as they stay inside their home after the Camp Fire devastated the entire town of Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. Weldon stayed in his home with his … more

    Photo: Jessica Christian / The Chronicle

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  • Officer Randy Law tends to a rescued horse as a wildfire burns in Paradise, Calif., on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018.
    Officer Randy Law tends to a rescued horse as a wildfire burns in Paradise, Calif., on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018.

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • Firefighter Jose Corona sprays water as flames consume from the Camp Fire consume a home in Magalia, Calif., on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)
    Firefighter Jose Corona sprays water as flames consume from the Camp Fire consume a home in Magalia, Calif., on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

    Photo: Noah Berger / Associated Press

  • Firefighters work on a controlled burn at a wildfire, Friday, Nov. 9, 2018, in Magalia, Calif.
    Firefighters work on a controlled burn at a wildfire, Friday, Nov. 9, 2018, in Magalia, Calif.

    Photo: John Locher, AP

  • Araya Cipollini cries near the remains of her family’s home burned in the Camp Fire, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Paradise, Calif. The blaze that started Thursday outside the hilly town of Paradise has grown and destroyed more than 6,700 buildings, almost all of them homes, making it California’s most destructive wildfire since record-keeping began. But crews have made gains and the fire is partially contained, officials said Saturday. less
    Araya Cipollini cries near the remains of her family’s home burned in the Camp Fire, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Paradise, Calif. The blaze that started Thursday outside the hilly town of Paradise has grown … more

    Photo: John Locher, AP

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  • Krystin Harvey, left, comforts her daughter Araya Cipollini at the remains of their home burned in the Camp Fire, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Paradise, Calif. The blaze that started Thursday outside the hilly town of Paradise has grown and destroyed more than 6,700 buildings, almost all of them homes, making it California’s most destructive wildfire since record-keeping began. But crews have made gains and the fire is partially contained, officials said Saturday. less
    Krystin Harvey, left, comforts her daughter Araya Cipollini at the remains of their home burned in the Camp Fire, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Paradise, Calif. The blaze that started Thursday outside the hilly … more

    Photo: John Locher, AP

  • A firefighter sprays water on a controlled burn at a wildfire, Friday, Nov. 9, 2018, in Magalia, Calif.
    A firefighter sprays water on a controlled burn at a wildfire, Friday, Nov. 9, 2018, in Magalia, Calif.

    Photo: John Locher, AP

  • Brad Weldon looks at a charred U-Haul that was burnt inside a storage unit facility after the Camp Fire devastated the entire town of Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018.
    Brad Weldon looks at a charred U-Haul that was burnt inside a storage unit facility after the Camp Fire devastated the entire town of Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018.

    Photo: Jessica Christian / The Chronicle

  • Charred mailboxes sit on the ground along Lisa Lane after the Camp Fire devastated the entire town of Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018.
    Charred mailboxes sit on the ground along Lisa Lane after the Camp Fire devastated the entire town of Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018.

    Photo: Jessica Christian / The Chronicle

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  • Mic McCrary, 27, shuts the sliding glass door of his home behind him before checking out damage around the neighborhood after the Camp Fire devastated the entire town of Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018. McCrary stayed in his home with 90-year-old Norma Weldon and her son, Brad, as the fire overtook their entire neighborhood while leaving his home untouched. less
    Mic McCrary, 27, shuts the sliding glass door of his home behind him before checking out damage around the neighborhood after the Camp Fire devastated the entire town of Paradise, Calif. Saturday, Nov. 10, … more

    Photo: Jessica Christian, The Chronicle

  • Businesses burn in downtown Paradise during Camp Fire in Butte County, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.
    Businesses burn in downtown Paradise during Camp Fire in Butte County, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante / The Chronicle

  • The sun rises above the East Bay hills through a smoky haze in Berkeley, Calif. on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018. Air quality in the region remains unhealthy while smoke from the Camp Fire in Butte County continues to drift to the south. less
    The sun rises above the East Bay hills through a smoky haze in Berkeley, Calif. on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018. Air quality in the region remains unhealthy while smoke from the Camp Fire in Butte County continues to … more

    Photo: Paul Chinn, The Chronicle

  • Dramatic black plumes of smoke from the Camp Fire near Chico.

    Dramatic black plumes of smoke from the Camp Fire near Chico.

    Photo: Oakland Firefighters Local 55 Facebook Page

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  • Firefighter Jose Corona monitors a burning home as the Camp Fire burns in Magalia, Calif., on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018.
    Firefighter Jose Corona monitors a burning home as the Camp Fire burns in Magalia, Calif., on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018.

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • The walls of a scorched antique shop stand on Skyway after a wildfire burned through Paradise, Calif., on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018.
    The walls of a scorched antique shop stand on Skyway after a wildfire burned through Paradise, Calif., on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018.

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • Abandoned vehicles line Skyway after a wildfire burned through Paradise, Calif., on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018.
    Abandoned vehicles line Skyway after a wildfire burned through Paradise, Calif., on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018.

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • Officer Randy Law tends to a rescued horse rescued as a wildfire burns in Paradise, Calif., on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018.
    Officer Randy Law tends to a rescued horse rescued as a wildfire burns in Paradise, Calif., on Friday, Nov. 9, 2018.

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

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  • A partially burned flag flies during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. on Friday, November 9, 2018.
    A partially burned flag flies during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. on Friday, November 9, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

  • Smoke billows out from a house during the Camp Fire in Paradise, California, on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.
    Smoke billows out from a house during the Camp Fire in Paradise, California, on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.

    Photo: Gabrielle Lurie / The Chronicle

  • A hotshot firefighter watches as the Camp Fire burns off of Pentz Road in Paradise, California, on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.
    A hotshot firefighter watches as the Camp Fire burns off of Pentz Road in Paradise, California, on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.

    Photo: Gabrielle Lurie / The Chronicle

  • Fire trucks stage on Highway 191 during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. on Friday, November 9, 2018.
    Fire trucks stage on Highway 191 during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. on Friday, November 9, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante / The Chronicle

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  • The Safeway grocery store was gutted during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. on Friday, November 9, 2018.
    The Safeway grocery store was gutted during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. on Friday, November 9, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

  • The Camp Fire burns off of Pentz Road in Paradise, California, on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.
    The Camp Fire burns off of Pentz Road in Paradise, California, on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.

    Photo: Gabrielle Lurie / The Chronicle

  • Cases of beer inside gutted Safeway grocery store during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. on Friday, November 9, 2018.
    Cases of beer inside gutted Safeway grocery store during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. on Friday, November 9, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

  • A scorched vehicle rests on a roadside as the Camp Fire tears through Paradise, Calif., on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. Tens of thousands of people fled a fast-moving wildfire Thursday in Northern California, some clutching babies and pets as they abandoned vehicles and struck out on foot ahead of the flames that forced the evacuation of an entire town and destroyed hundreds of structures.

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    A scorched vehicle rests on a roadside as the Camp Fire tears through Paradise, Calif., on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. Tens of thousands of people fled a fast-moving wildfire Thursday in Northern California, some

    … more

    Photo: Noah Berger/AP

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  • A hotshot crewmember watches as the Camp Fire burns off of Pentz Road in Paradise, California, on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.
    A hotshot crewmember watches as the Camp Fire burns off of Pentz Road in Paradise, California, on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.

    Photo: Gabrielle Lurie / The Chronicle

  • First Assembly of God Church was destroyed during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Friday, November 9, 2018.
    First Assembly of God Church was destroyed during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Friday, November 9, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

  • Burned vehicles at a car dealership during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. on Friday, November 9, 2018.
    Burned vehicles at a car dealership during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif. on Friday, November 9, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante / The Chronicle

  • Residents of Paradise wait outside the evacuation area during Camp Fire west of Paradise, Calif.. on Friday, November 9, 2018.
    Residents of Paradise wait outside the evacuation area during Camp Fire west of Paradise, Calif.. on Friday, November 9, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante / The Chronicle

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  • Abandoned burned out cars sit in the middle of the road after the Camp Fire moved through the area on November 8, 2018 in Paradise, California. Fueled by high winds and low humidity, the rapidly spreading wildfire has ripped through the town of Paradise, charring 18,000 acres and destroying dozens of homes in a matter of hours. The fire is currently at zero containment.

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    Abandoned burned out cars sit in the middle of the road after the Camp Fire moved through the area on November 8, 2018 in Paradise, California. Fueled by high winds and low humidity, the rapidly spreading

    … more

    Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

  • A pick up truck drives on a road during Camp Fire west of Paradise, Calif.. on Friday, November 9, 2018.
    A pick up truck drives on a road during Camp Fire west of Paradise, Calif.. on Friday, November 9, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

  • A pick up truck drives on a road during Camp Fire west of Paradise, Calif.. on Friday, November 9, 2018.
    A pick up truck drives on a road during Camp Fire west of Paradise, Calif.. on Friday, November 9, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

  • The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints burns during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.
    The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints burns during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

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  • A home burns as the Camp Fire rages through Paradise, Calif., on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. Tens of thousands of people fled a fast-moving wildfire Thursday in Northern California, some clutching babies and pets as they abandoned vehicles and struck out on foot ahead of the flames that forced the evacuation of an entire town. less
    A home burns as the Camp Fire rages through Paradise, Calif., on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. Tens of thousands of people fled a fast-moving wildfire Thursday in Northern California, some clutching babies and pets … more

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • A home burns as the Camp Fire rages through Paradise, Calif., on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. Tens of thousands of people fled a fast-moving wildfire Thursday in Northern California, some clutching babies and pets as they abandoned vehicles and struck out on foot ahead of the flames that forced the evacuation of an entire town. less
    A home burns as the Camp Fire rages through Paradise, Calif., on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. Tens of thousands of people fled a fast-moving wildfire Thursday in Northern California, some clutching babies and pets … more

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • The Camp Fire rages through Paradise, Calif., on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. Tens of thousands of people fled a fast-moving wildfire Thursday in Northern California, some clutching babies and pets as they abandoned vehicles and struck out on foot ahead of the flames that forced the evacuation of an entire town. less
    The Camp Fire rages through Paradise, Calif., on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. Tens of thousands of people fled a fast-moving wildfire Thursday in Northern California, some clutching babies and pets as they abandoned … more

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

  • A home burns as the Camp Fire rages through Paradise, Calif., on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. Tens of thousands of people fled a fast-moving wildfire Thursday in Northern California, some clutching babies and pets as they abandoned vehicles and struck out on foot ahead of the flames that forced the evacuation of an entire town. less
    A home burns as the Camp Fire rages through Paradise, Calif., on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. Tens of thousands of people fled a fast-moving wildfire Thursday in Northern California, some clutching babies and pets … more

    Photo: Noah Berger, AP

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  • Vehicles burn during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.
    Vehicles burn during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

  • The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints burns during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.
    The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints burns during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante / The Chronicle

  • The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints burns during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.
    The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints burns during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

  • Businesses burn in downtown Paradise during Camp Fire in Butte County, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.
    Businesses burn in downtown Paradise during Camp Fire in Butte County, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

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  • A PG&E worker runs while dealing with downed power lines during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.
    A PG&E worker runs while dealing with downed power lines during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

  • A charred wheelchair in Paradise Gardens senior community during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.
    A charred wheelchair in Paradise Gardens senior community during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

  • A business burns during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.
    A business burns during Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

  • Smoke from the Camp Fire, burning in the Feather River Canyon near Paradise, Calif., darkens the sky Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. (AP Photo/Don Thompson)
    Smoke from the Camp Fire, burning in the Feather River Canyon near Paradise, Calif., darkens the sky Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. (AP Photo/Don Thompson)

    Photo: Don Thompson, Associated Press

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  • The massive plume from the Camp Fire, burning in the Feather River Canyon near Paradise, Calif., wafts over the Sacramento Valley as seen from Chico, Calif., on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. Authorities in Northern California have ordered mandatory evacuations in a rural area where the wildfire has grown to 1,000 acres (405 hectares) amid hot and windy weather. (David Little/Chico Enterprise-Record via AP) less
    The massive plume from the Camp Fire, burning in the Feather River Canyon near Paradise, Calif., wafts over the Sacramento Valley as seen from Chico, Calif., on Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018. Authorities in Northern … more

    Photo: David Little, AP

  • Smoke from the Camp Fire, burning in the Feather River Canyon near Paradise, Calif., darkens the sky above the Butte College sig in Oroville, Calif., Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.
    Smoke from the Camp Fire, burning in the Feather River Canyon near Paradise, Calif., darkens the sky above the Butte College sig in Oroville, Calif., Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.

    Photo: Don Thompson, AP

  • Twitter user jackieglazerr captured dark plumes of smoke from the Camp Fire filling the sky over Fair Street in Chico.
    Twitter user jackieglazerr captured dark plumes of smoke from the Camp Fire filling the sky over Fair Street in Chico.

    Photo: Twitter

  • Nicole Kowalczyke of Chico stepped outside to look at smoke from the Camp Fire Thursday morning, and a singed piece of paper fell from the sky.

    Nicole Kowalczyke of Chico stepped outside to look at smoke from the Camp Fire Thursday morning, and a singed piece of paper fell from the sky.

    Photo: Nicole Kowalczyke

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  • A helicopter flies towards the Camp Fire in Butte County, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.
    A helicopter flies towards the Camp Fire in Butte County, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

  • Smoke from the Camp Fire, burning in the Feather River Canyon near Paradise, Calif., darkens the sky Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.
    Smoke from the Camp Fire, burning in the Feather River Canyon near Paradise, Calif., darkens the sky Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.

    Photo: Don Thompson, AP

  • Smoke from the Camp Fire, burning in the Feather River Canyon near Paradise, Calif., darkens the sky as seen from Highway 99 near Marysville, Calif., Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.
    Smoke from the Camp Fire, burning in the Feather River Canyon near Paradise, Calif., darkens the sky as seen from Highway 99 near Marysville, Calif., Thursday, Nov. 8, 2018.

    Photo: Don Thompson, AP

  • Jim and Irene Cooper get out of their vehicle after evacuating from Paradise during Camp Fire in Butte County, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.
    Jim and Irene Cooper get out of their vehicle after evacuating from Paradise during Camp Fire in Butte County, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

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  • After evacuating from her home in Paradise, Angie Waltmon wipes away a tear while watching Camp Fire from along Highway 191 in Butte County, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.
    After evacuating from her home in Paradise, Angie Waltmon wipes away a tear while watching Camp Fire from along Highway 191 in Butte County, Calif.. on Thursday, November 8, 2018.

    Photo: Scott Strazzante, The Chronicle

  • View of the Camp Fire taken by a resident of nearby Chico. Nov. 8, 2018

    View of the Camp Fire taken by a resident of nearby Chico. Nov. 8, 2018

    Photo: Nicole Kowalczyke

  • Napa County residents reported seeing smoke from the Camp Fire north of Sacramento on Nov. 8, 2018.
    Napa County residents reported seeing smoke from the Camp Fire north of Sacramento on Nov. 8, 2018.

    Photo: Craig Philpott

  • Smoke blankets the air over the California State University, Chico, which is 15 miles from the Camp Fire burning near Paradise, Calif. on Nov. 8, 2018.
    Smoke blankets the air over the California State University, Chico, which is 15 miles from the Camp Fire burning near Paradise, Calif. on Nov. 8, 2018.

    Photo: Twitter

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  • Twitter user jackieglazerr captured dark plumes of smoke from the Camp Fire filling the sky over Fair Street in Chico.
    Twitter user jackieglazerr captured dark plumes of smoke from the Camp Fire filling the sky over Fair Street in Chico.

    Photo: Twitter

  • Smoke blankets the air over the California State University, Chico, which is 15 miles from the Camp Fire burning near Paradise, Calif. on Nov. 8, 2018.

    Smoke blankets the air over the California State University, Chico, which is 15 miles from the Camp Fire burning near Paradise, Calif. on Nov. 8, 2018.

    Photo: Cal Fire

  • Evacuations were ordered in Butte County Thursday after a wildfire grew to more than 1,000 acres.

    Evacuations were ordered in Butte County Thursday after a wildfire grew to more than 1,000 acres.

    Photo: Twitter / Cal Fire Butte Unit

  • Smoke blankets the air over the California State University, Chico, which is 15 miles from the Camp Fire burning near Paradise, Calif. on Nov. 8, 2018.
    Smoke blankets the air over the California State University, Chico, which is 15 miles from the Camp Fire burning near Paradise, Calif. on Nov. 8, 2018.

    Photo: Jason Halley

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  • Smoke blankets the air over the California State University, Chico, which is 15 miles from the Camp Fire burning near Paradise, Calif. on Nov. 8, 2018.
    Smoke blankets the air over the California State University, Chico, which is 15 miles from the Camp Fire burning near Paradise, Calif. on Nov. 8, 2018.

    Photo: Jason Halley

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Photo: KCRA

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Margaret Newsum was rescued from the encroaching Camp Fire by her garbageman, Dane Ray Cummings.

Margaret Newsum was rescued from the encroaching Camp Fire by her garbageman, Dane Ray Cummings.

Photo: KCRA

Garbageman saves 93-year-old from the Camp Fire by pulling her into his truck
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“They lifted her, and we scooted her on the seat and put the seat belt on her and made sure she was up there far enough so she wouldn’t fall out either side, and that was it. We were on the road,” said Cummings.

They had to be careful. Newsum is recovering from a broken back.

The garbageman had been alerted to the fast-moving fire a short time earlier by a supervisor who wanted him to cut bait and head home. Cummings didn’t and instead finished his route. He wanted to get to Newsum’s part of Magalia because he knew there would be dozens of older residents in need of help.

“I been on that route eight years, and I just picked the people that I knew were older, and I tried to stop and help them and let them know that they were coming and make sure they were getting out,” he said. “She was my last stop. I probably went to 45 or 50 people to see if I could help them.”

Both say the drive was a grind — five hours down the hill to safety as panicked residents fled their homes.

The two had time to talk, and Cummings learned that despite years of dumping her garbage and eating her homemade cookies, he really didn’t know a whole lot about Newsum.

“I wish I’d known her when she was younger. I would’ve married her, you know what I mean? It was the best conversation I’ve had in a truck ever,” he said.

“He learned my history from the time I was born until today,” said Newsum, who turns 94 in February.

She told him about overcoming cancer three times and being broadsided by an 18-wheeler after hang gliding at the age of 70, which led to numerous broken bones and a lengthy recovery.

Newsum recalled witnessing the attack on Pearl Harbor.

“I was to be married, and my future husband was in the Marine Corps,” she said. “All I remember is the first bomb that hit one of the ships, and the apartment that he rented for me was right at the bay. And I went out to see what it was, and this Japanese plane came over. He was so low that I could see the pilot.”

To this day, she said, she sill has nightmares of what she saw there.

As if that wasn’t enough, she talked about her time as a backup singer, including for a group of men who achieved international fame.

“The Rat Pack. Wonderful, wonderful men,” she said. “The singers did the picking out. So, the next thing I know, I was in an interviewing room, and here sits Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. and Dean Martin. All three of them were sitting there, and they said, ‘We are so thrilled to have you working for us.'”

Cummings was left speechless.

The Camp Fire never reached Newsum’s home on Dana Circle, but it did solidify a bond beyond a weekly pickup.

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