LA County firefighter killed in vehicle explosion in Littlerock Quarry – Daily News

A Los Angeles County firefighter was killed Friday, June 14, when part of a burning front loader exploded at a Littlerock quarry.

Los Angeles County Fire crews responded around 2 p.m. to the quarry in the 7300 block of Pearblossom Highway in the community southeast of Palmdale following a report of a vehicle on fire .

County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said that shortly after crews arrived, perhaps around 2:10 p.m., an explosion occurred, killing 19-year-old firefighter Andrew Pontious.

In the early evening, his body remained at the scene, covered with an American flag.

A second firefighter who was near the explosion was transported to Antelope Valley Medical Center, but was not seriously injured and has been released from the hospital, Marrone said.

“I don’t know how the fire started, or what exploded,” Marrone said, noting that a thorough investigation would be conducted.

Marrone said Pontious was stationed in Palmdale. Marrone called him a “wonderful man.” He was married. He's a father. It's just such a tragedy.

By late afternoon, the large front loader was still burning and sending thick black smoke into the air.

Firefighters stay away from equipment that is in an isolated area of ​​land and presents no risk of flames spreading to other vehicles. Crews kept a water hose on the vehicle and most of the flames appeared to have been extinguished by early evening.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, whose district includes the Littlerock area, said in a statement that her “heart is heavy.” …

“My deepest condolences to (the Pontious family) and the other firefighters at Station 93,” she said. “It’s a sad reminder of the dangers our first responders face every day.

“We owe them our unwavering support as they deal with this loss,” the supervisor said. “I am committed to ensuring our firefighters have the mental health support they need as they grieve.”