Amanda Buchanan Identified as Victim in Chula Vista 7-Eleven Fire; Family and Friends Gather in Support

CHULA VISTA, CA — The Chula Vista community is rallying in support after a devastating fire at a local 7-Eleven left two employees with severe burn injuries. The blaze, which occurred early Saturday morning, has brought a wave of support and concern as family and friends gather for Amanda Buchanan, one of the critically injured victims.

The fire erupted around 8 a.m. at the 7-Eleven located at 899 Broadway. Chula Vista police officers were the first responders to the scene, where they found one woman with burns exiting the store. Inside, they discovered another woman, later identified as Amanda Buchanan, who was unable to move due to her injuries. According to CVPD Sgt. Anthony Molina, officers had to pull Buchanan out of the store to safety.

Both women, who were employees of the 7-Eleven, were rushed to a local hospital for emergency treatment. Buchanan’s son, Dominic Rivera, provided a heart-wrenching update on her condition. Rivera described the severity of his mother’s injuries, noting that she had been burned over 80% of her body. “I went and visited my mom today and could hardly look at her,” Rivera said. “Her injuries are so severe that even with skin grafts, there might not be enough healthy skin to cover all the affected areas.”

The fire was extinguished by the fire crews, and fortunately, no customers were in the store at the time, so no other injuries were reported. However, the incident has left the community in shock and mourning. Investigators are still working to determine the cause of the blaze, which remains under investigation.

The local community has responded with an outpouring of support for the injured employees and their families. Fundraising efforts and vigils are being organized as people come together to offer help and solidarity. The tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the hazards faced by workers in everyday roles and the importance of community support in times of crisis.

As the investigation continues, authorities are appealing for any witnesses or individuals with information about the fire to come forward. The Chula Vista Police Department encourages anyone who may have seen something suspicious or has any details about the incident to contact them. Meanwhile, the community remains united in their hope for recovery and justice for Amanda Buchanan and her colleague.