Firefighter dies in explosion at quarry | News

County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said an explosion occurred shortly after emergency responders arrived, believed to have occurred around 2:10 p.m., killing Andrew Pontious, a 19-year firefighter. Pontious’ body was taken to the Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office in Boyle Heights.

A second firefighter who was near the explosion was taken to Antelope Valley Medical Center as a precautionary measure but did not suffer serious injuries and was released from the hospital, Marrone said.

“I don’t know how the fire started and I don’t know what exploded and caused the death of our firefighter,” Marrone said, noting that a thorough investigation is being conducted.

Marrone said Pontius was stationed in Palmdale. Although he did not name the victim, Marrone called him a “wonderful man. He was married. He’s a father. It’s just such a tragedy.”

“I ask everyone to give our firefighters the space they need to process our great loss,” he said. “We are truly suffering and need your thoughts and prayers.”

By late afternoon, the large front-end loader was still burning and emitting thick black smoke. Firefighters kept their distance from the unit, which was in a remote, unpaved area and posed no threat of flames spreading to other vehicles. Firefighters kept a hose attached to the vehicle, and by early evening, most of the flames appeared to be out.

“On behalf of Sheriff (Robert) Luna and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, we mourn in solidarity with our brothers and sisters of the Los Angeles County Fire Department,” said Sheriff’s Commander Mark Reyes.

He added that the sheriff’s office has formed a joint task force with the fire department to safely contain the incident and that a death investigation will be conducted by detectives from the sheriff’s homicide and arson units.

Kathryn Barger, a Los Angeles County councilwoman whose district includes the Antelope Valley, said in a statement that the news of the deaths was “heartbreaking.”

“My deepest condolences go out to his family and the other firefighters at Station 93,” she said. “It is a sobering reminder of the dangers our first responders face every day. We owe them our unwavering support as they grapple with this loss. I will work to ensure our firefighters receive the mental health support they need as they grieve.”

Assistant District Attorney Jonathan Hatami issued a statement saying his thoughts and prayers were with the LA County Fire Department.

“My sincere condolences to the family, friends, partners and the entire Antelope Valley community,” he said. “I am so, so sorry for your loss and I am forever grateful for your dedication to our community.”