LA County Firefighter Dies • Andrew Pontious

Andrew Pontious, a 19-year veteran of the LA County Fire Department, died while trying to put out flames from a large tractor in a rock quarry at around 2 p.m. when an explosion occurred and killed him, LA County Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone said.

Pontious is survived by his spouse and children.

"We extend our condolences & prayers to the family, friends & colleagues of FF Pontious," the department said in a social media post. During a press conference Friday, Marrone described Pontious as a "wonderful man."

“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 Firefighter 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.

Residents of Sylmar pay respect to the Firefighter's procession as it travels through Sylmar.