LOS ANGELES, CA – Two Los Angeles firefighters are in critical condition after being injured in a compressed natural gas truck explosion in Wilmington. The incident, which occurred in the 1100 block of North Alameda Street, also left seven other firefighters injured, though not as severely.
The explosion took place as the firefighters were attempting to put out a fire in the compressed natural gas truck. According to LAFD Capt. Erik Scott, one of the vehicle’s two 100-gallon CNG fuel tanks pressurized to at least 3,000 psi, causing a powerful blast that injured the firefighters.
Security camera footage captured the moment of the explosion, showing a massive fireball rising above the South Bay community. The force of the blast caused remnants of the fuel tank to be found hundreds of feet away from the truck. This incident underscores the dangers involved in dealing with compressed natural gas, a fuel gas mainly composed of methane stored in hard pressurized containers.
While the truck driver escaped injury, the firefighters were not as fortunate. The injured include a 37-year-old, 9-year LAFD veteran who was airlifted to a burn center for specialized care.
The incident highlights the hazards faced by emergency responders dealing with alternative fuel vehicles such as CNG-powered ones. These vehicles are increasingly common due to their environmental benefits, but safety precautions are essential due to the unique risks involved in handling compressed natural gas.