L.A. County firefighter killed in explosion honored by procession

A procession was held Friday night for a Los Angeles County firefighter who was killed in a vehicle explosion while battling a fire near Palmdale.

The firefighter was identified as Andrew Pontious, 52, from Upland. He was a 19-year veteran of the department. He was assigned to a four-person engine at Station 93 and worked in the Palmdale area.

“He was a wonderful man,” said Anthony Marrone, L.A. County Fire Department Chief. “He was married, he’s a father and it’s just such a tragedy.”

The explosion happened at a cement quarry near the 6500 block of East Avenue T in Littlerock at around 2.p.m., officials said.

Sky5 video of the scene showed a large tractor, described as an articulated front loader, with flames still visible near the engine and heavy smoke billowing from the vehicle.

A body located on a dirt mound near the smoking vehicle was seen covered by an American flag.

A second firefighter sustained minor injuries and was transported to the Antelope Valley Medical Center. He will be released later Friday night. It’s unknown what initially sparked the fire.

A procession honoring Pontious took place on Friday night. He was saluted by members of local law enforcement as his body was placed inside a coroner’s van.

The procession began at the quarry located near the Pearblossom Highway and traveled along the 14 and 5 Freeways before ending at the L.A. County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Patrol vehicles from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the California Highway Patrol and the Los Angeles County Fire Department escorted Pontious’ body for the over 50-mile journey to downtown L.A.

A large group of civilians, community members, local law enforcement and loved ones were seen lining up on freeway overpasses on the procession path to honor Pontious.

“It is with a heavy heart that [we] share the Line of Duty Death of Andrew Pontious,” said L.A. County Fire officials. “Pontious was assigned to FS 93 in the City of Palmdale. He faithfully served our Department along with L.A. County residents & communities for over 19 years. We extend our condolences & prayers to the family, friends & colleagues of FF Pontious.”

Governor Gavin Newsom issued a statement on Pontious’ death saying:

“Jennifer and I offer our sincerest condolences to the family, friends and entire Los Angeles County Fire Department for the loss of Firefighter Andrew Pontious. His service protecting the Los Angeles community will never be forgotten.

Newsom’s office said flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space will be flown at half-staff in honor of Pontious.

“We grieve in solidarity with our brothers and sisters with the Los Angeles County Fire Department,” said LASD Commander Mark Reyes.

“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of Andrew Pontious, a brave LA County Fire Fighter who served the department and protected Los Angeles County residents for 19 years,” said L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn. “His tragic loss in the line of duty this afternoon is a stark reminder of the selflessness and bravery that define our firefighters. My prayers are with his wife and stepdaughter, his Station 93 family, and the entire LA County Fire Department who have lost a hero.”

“My heart is heavy to learn that one of our firefighters lost his life when responding to a call in Palmdale,” said L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “My deepest condolences to his family and the other firefighters at Station 93. 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.”

The incident will be investigated by the LASD’s Homicide Bureau and the Arson Unit.

Footage of the procession, along with updates from officials, can be seen in the video players above.