Veteran Los Angeles County Firefighter Killed In Explosion

LITTLEROCK, CA — A Los Angeles County firefighter was killed in an explosion while battling a fire at a Littlerock quarry Friday, and another firefighter was hospitalized in unknown condition.

Los Angeles County Fire Department firefighters responded to a report of a vehicle fire in the 7300 block of Pearblossom Highway shortly after 2 p.m. They found a large front-loader or tractor with flames shooting from it near an isolated dirt area.

County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone said a short time after crews arrived, an explosion occurred, killing Andrew Pontious, a 19-year veteran firefighter. Pontious' body was taken to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's office in Boyle Heights.

A second firefighter who was near the blast was taken to Antelope Valley Medical Center, but did not suffer any serious injuries and was being released from the hospital, Marrone said.

"I don't know how the fire started and I don't know what exploded," Marrone said, noting that a thorough investigation will be conducted.

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."

Broadcast footage from the scene showed a flag-draped body was visible on a large pile of dirt near the burning vehicle.

KCAL9 reported from the scene that an ambulance took the other firefighter to a hospital, but there was no immediate confirmation of any other injuries.

After the explosion, the vehicle continued to burn as the remaining firefighters kept a safe distance.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, whose district includes the Littlerock area, issued a statement saying her "heart is heavy" to learn about the death.

"My deepest condolences to his family and the other firefighters at Station 93," she said. "It's a sobering reminder of the dangers our first responders face every day. We owe them our steadfast support as they grapple with this loss. I'm committed to ensuring our fire personnel are connected with needed mental health support as they grieve."

City News Service contributed to this report.