L.A. County Firefighter Killed in Front-End Loader Explosion

Data Not DramaJune 30, 2024Line of Duty DeathsFirefighting, Line of Duty Deaths

By Bill Carey
30 June 2024

LOS ANGELES COUNTY, Calif. —A veteran firefighter was killed when part of a burning front-loader exploded during a fire at a Littlerock quarry on 14 June.

Firefighters responded to the quarry southeast of Palmdale for a report of a burning vehicle, the Los Angeles Daily News reported.

Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said a short time after crews arrived, an explosion occurred killing Firefighter Andrew Pontious and injuring a second firefighter.

The cause of the fire and the explosion are under investigation.

Photograph courtesy of the Los Angeles County Fire Department/Facebook.

Published by Data Not Drama

Data Not Drama is writings that provide a point of critical thought about firefighter fatality data and education, line of duty deaths, and risk. The main focus is to encourage less risk aversion and better knowledge on the subject of firefighter fatalities in firefighters, fire departments, and fire service organizations. View more posts