Firefighter Injured When Grenade Explodes In Homeless Encampment Fire

LOS ANGELES, CA — A Los Angeles firefighter was critically injured and airlifted for treatment following an explosion at a small homeless encampment fire in the Sepulveda Basin Monday afternoon.

A bomb squad was called to the scene after police identified a grenade at the scene ABC7 Eyewitness News reported.

"Due to the significant injury that took place and the concern, we are working with the LAPD in a Unified Command," Los Angeles Fire Department Capt. Erik Scott told reported. "They are combing through the debris. They are talking to any witnesses to determine exactly what caused that incident."

The blaze broke out shortly after 1:30 p.m. in the 15700 block of West Burbank Boulevard, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.

"Los Angeles Firefighters responded to a half acre of grass burning in a homeless encampment. As firefighters made access to the flames, there was an explosion, causing an injury to a firefighter," said Los Angeles Fire Department spokesperson Melissa Kelley. "The incident commander then called for an air ambulance, while simultaneously upgrading the incident to a full brush assignment to battle the persistent flames, and care for one of our own."

The wounded firefighter is being treated at Northridge Hospital Medical Center. Ten others near the blast were taken to the hospital for examination.

It's the second explosion in 10 days to injure firefighters in Los Angeles County.

SEE ALSO: Veteran Los Angeles County Firefighter Killed In Explosion

A Los Angeles County firefighter was killed in an explosion while battling a fire at a Littlerock quarry on June 14, and another firefighter was hospitalized with serious injuries. Andrew Pontious was a married father and a 19-year veteran firefighter when he was killed by the explosion.