Updated Statement from McOsker: Cylinder Explosion in Wilmington Leaves Firefighters in Critical Condition

Intersection of N Henry Ford Ave and Alameda St., Wilmington

This story is ongoing.

Councilmember McOsker at 11 a.m. Made Statement on Injured LAFD Firefighters in Wilmington Explosion:

“This morning as an LA City Fire Department Task Force was responding to a fire in Wilmington on a tractor trailer with pressurized tanks, an explosion occurred injuring nine firefighters, with two in critical condition,” said Councilmember Tim McOsker. “Battalion 13 and its many resources have secured the scene but please avoid the area around Alameda from Anaheim St. to PCH. I’m grateful for the brave first responders of our great fire department who arrived quickly to contain the situation, racing towards danger to protect our community. It’s a reminder of how dangerous this job is and how selfless and courageous these first responders are. I’ve visited the scene and the hospital where the injured firefighters are being treated. Please join me in praying for these firefighters and their families, and the LA City Fire Department family.”

Statement on behalf of LA Department of Health Services

As of 10 a.m. this morning, the LA Department of Health Services confirms nine of the victims were initially brought to Harbor UCLA Medical Center, two of which are in critical condition. One of the victims in critical condition has now been transferred to UCLA’s sister hospital, Los Angeles General Medical Center where it operates one of only three Burn Center units in Los Angeles.

LA Department of Health Services confirms that two firefighters are being treated for critical injuries and seven are being treated for general injuries and it defers to the Los Angeles Fire Department for more details regarding the explosion.

Original Report:

WILMINGTON — Firefighters were injured when a 100 gallon compressed natural gas tank on a truck exploded Feb. 15 in Wilmington. One cylinder remained intact, which the firefighters continued to assess. The explosion left debris scattered in the street.

The explosion occurred just before 7 a.m. near the intersection of Alameda Street and N. Henry Ford Ave. Seven firefighters were injured with at least two hospitalized in critical condition. Other people were being assessed for injuries at the scene.

It was not immediately clear whether the truck was moving at the time, or what caused the cylinders to catch on fire. It was also unknown if a driver or anyone else was inside the truck at the time of the explosion.

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