Procession honors LA County firefighter killed in quarry explosion – NBC Los Angeles

A 52-year-old Los Angeles County firefighter who was killed in an explosion at a Southern California quarry will be honored Wednesday during a procession to his final resting place.

Andrew Pontious, a firefighter with 19 years of experience, died in the line of duty Friday when a burning front-end loader exploded at the quarry in the Antelope Valley community of Littlerock, north of Los Angeles. He leaves behind his wife, stepdaughter, parents and brother, a former county fire captain.

Firefighters from the Los Angeles County Fire Department and nearby agencies will participate in the funeral procession at 11 a.m. from the morgue near downtown Los Angeles to Forest Lawn-Covina Hills Cemetery.

Pontious also served the parishes of El Monte, Rosemead and San Fernando during his career.

Firefighters arrived at the quarry on Pearblossom Highway around 2 p.m. Friday when part of the front-end loader exploded, killing Pontious and injuring a fellow firefighter. The second firefighter, whose identity has not yet been released, was treated and released at Antelope Valley Medical Center.

“I don’t know how the fire started, and I don’t know what exploded,” Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said at the time, pointing out that the investigation had only just begun.

Homicide and arson investigators from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department are investigating.

Marrone said Pontious was stationed in Palmdale. He 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 even when he was not on the roster. Affectionately known as “Uncle,” he was said to enjoy spending time with his family, hunting, and studying wildlife. His passion for conservation was well known among colleagues and friends.

Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered flags at the state Capitol to fly at half-mast in honor of the fallen firefighter.

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