By Trend News Line 2024-06-15 04:49:25.
A somber procession was held on Friday night in honour of Los Angeles County firefighter Andrew Pontious, who tragically lost his life in a vehicle explosion while battling a fire near Palmdale. Pontious, 52, from Upland, was a dedicated 19-year veteran of the department, assigned to a four-person engine in the Palmdale area.
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The incident occurred at a cement quarry near the 6500 block of East Avenue T in Littlerock around 2 p.m. The explosion involved a large tractor, described as an articulated front loader, with flames still visible near the engine and heavy smoke billowing from the vehicle. Pontious’ body was found on a dirt mound near the smoking vehicle, covered by an American flag.
L.A. County Fire Department Chief Anthony Marrone paid tribute to Pontious, describing him as a wonderful man, married with children, and expressing deep sadness at the tragedy. The explosion also injured another firefighter, who sustained minor injuries and was treated at Antelope Valley Medical Center before being released later that night.
The cause of the initial fire that the firefighters were battling remains unknown, as investigations continue into the circumstances leading to the vehicle explosion. In honour of Pontious, a poignant procession was organised, with patrol vehicles from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the California Highway Patrol, and the Los Angeles County Fire Department escorting his body from the quarry to the L.A. County Medical Examiner’s Office.
The procession route spanned over 50 miles, passing along the 14 and 5 Freeways before reaching downtown L.A. Civilians, community members, loved ones, and local law enforcement gathered on freeway overpasses along the path to pay their respects to Pontious. Firefighters and law enforcement personnel saluted as the procession passed by, lifting American flags as a mark of respect for the fallen hero.
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L.A. County Fire officials released a statement expressing their deep sorrow over the loss of Pontious, who faithfully served the department and the residents of L.A. County for nearly two decades. The community also mourned the loss, with L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn and Supervisor Kathryn Barger extending their condolences to Pontious’ family, friends, and colleagues.
The tragic death of Andrew Pontious serves as a stark reminder of the selflessness and bravery exhibited by firefighters who put their lives on the line to protect others. The entire L.A. County Fire Department is in mourning, united in grief over the loss of a true hero. The procession held in Pontious’ honour was a poignant tribute to his dedicated service and sacrifice, a solemn reminder of the risks faced by those who bravely serve their communities..
– Firefighter killed in explosion
– Palmdale fire explosion.
