An explosion in Wilmington on Thursday morning left nine firefighters injured, two critically, shedding light on the dangers inherent in firefighting and the complexities of handling incidents involving hazardous materials. Here’s a detailed overview of the incident and its aftermath.

Context of the Incident

The incident occurred near the Port of Los Angeles in Wilmington when a 100-gallon compressed natural gas (CNG) cylinder, used to power a semi-truck, exploded. The explosion took place shortly before 7 a.m. on the 1100 block of North Alameda Street. The truck, uniquely powered by CNG, had two 100-gallon tanks under high pressure, each mounted on either side.

The Firefighters’ Response and Injuries

Ten firefighters responded to the scene, following standard protocol for a vehicle fire. However, just six minutes after their arrival, one of the CNG tanks exploded, injuring nine firefighters, including two critically. The truck’s driver, noticing abnormalities with the tanks, had called 911 and safely evacuated the vehicle before the explosion occurred. The cause of the blast remained under investigation.

Handling the Aftermath

Approximately 150 firefighting personnel, including hazardous-materials specialists, were dispatched to manage the aftermath of the blast. A 500-foot radius around the explosion site was established as a precautionary measure. Although no evacuations were ordered for nearby homes, residents were advised to remain indoors.

Treatment and Recovery

The injured firefighters were transported to medical facilities for treatment. One critically injured firefighter received initial treatment at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center before being airlifted to Los Angeles General Hospital. Dr. Molly Deane of Harbor UCLA Medical Center remarked on the varying degrees of burn and blast injuries sustained by the firefighters, emphasizing the remarkable aspect that none of them were more severely injured given the intensity of the explosion.

Investigation and Support

LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley announced the formation of a “Significant Incident Review Team” tasked with thoroughly investigating the incident to identify areas for improvement and extract valuable lessons. Mayor Karen Bass expressed solidarity with the firefighters and gratitude for their courageous response. She highlighted the risks firefighters undertake daily to protect the community.

Public Awareness and Safety Measures

Fire officials reiterated safety precautions for the public, emphasizing the illegality of flying drones near emergency incidents without clearance. Motorists were advised to seek alternative routes to avoid the explosion area.

Acknowledging the Risks and Resilience

The Wilmington blast serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers faced by firefighters and the critical role they play in safeguarding communities. As investigations continue, it underscores the importance of constant vigilance, preparedness, and ongoing support for first responders who put their lives on the line to ensure public safety.

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