Funeral procession brings Los Angeles County firefighter killed in explosion to his final resting place

Firefighters from Los Angeles County and Greater Los Angeles and other agencies will hold a funeral procession Wednesday to carry to his final resting place a county firefighter who was killed when part of a burning front-end loader exploded at a Littlerock quarry.

Andrew Pontious, 52, a firefighter with 19 years of experience, died in an explosion at a quarry in the 7300 block of Pearblossom Highway around 2 p.m. Friday.

Pontious leaves behind his wife, Kim, his stepdaughter, Sara, his parents, Gary and Ellie, his brother, David, a former captain in the county fire department, and extended family.

Beginning at 11 a.m. Wednesday, firefighters from Los Angeles County and the Los Angeles Fire Departments, along with firefighters from the West Covina and Alhambra Fire Departments and other public safety agencies, will lead a procession to transport Pontious’ body from the LA County Department of Medical Examiner-and-Coroner to Forest Lawn-Covina Hills Cemetery.

According to the county fire department, Pontious also served the communities of El Monte, Rosemead and San Fernando during his career.

Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered flags at the Capitol to be flown at half-staff in honor of Pontious.

“His service to protecting the people of Los Angeles will never be forgotten,” the governor said in a statement a day after the tragedy.

Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said an explosion occurred shortly after emergency crews arrived at the quarry around 2:10 p.m. Friday, killing Pontious and injuring a second firefighter.

Late Friday, a procession of first responders escorted Pontious’ body from the quarry to the coroner’s office in Boyle Heights.

The second firefighter, whose identity is unknown, was treated and released at Antelope Valley Medical Center, Marrone said.

The large front loader continued to burn after the explosion, sending thick, black smoke into the air.

Firefighters kept their distance from the unit, which was located in a remote, unpaved area and posed no risk of flames spreading to other vehicles. Crews had attached a hose to the vehicle and most of the flames were extinguished by early evening.

“I don’t know how the fire started and I don’t know what exploded,” Marrone said at the time, adding that a thorough investigation was being conducted.

The investigation is being led by investigators from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide and Arson Division.

Marrone said Pontious was stationed in Palmdale and described him as a “wonderful man. He was married. He’s a father. It’s just such a tragedy.”

Pontious was known for his exemplary work ethic, unwavering positive attitude and genuine love of helping people, department officials said.

New firefighters could always count on his leadership and mentorship, the department said. When new battalion chiefs arrived, he was the first person to give them a tour on their first day.

Pontious was also a talented cook who often volunteered to help even when he was not on the roster. Affectionately known as “Uncle,” Pontious reportedly enjoyed spending time with his family, hunting, and studying wildlife. His passion for conservation was well known among colleagues and friends.