8 O.C. Firefighters Injured in Truck Crash on Irvine Freeway Return

On Thursday evening, a serious accident involving the Orange County Fire Authority’s Santiago hand crew left eight firefighters injured, with six suffering severe injuries. The incident occurred as they were responding to the Airport fire and took place on State Route 241, near Irvine, California.

The crash happened around 6:45 p.m., when the firefighting vehicle swerved to avoid a metal ladder that had fallen onto the freeway. According to California Highway Patrol spokesperson Jeremy Tolen, the driver reacted after seeing the ladder, which created a chain reaction. Following a car in front that also attempted to dodge the obstacle, the fire vehicle struck the guardrail and overturned.

All eight crew members were promptly evacuated by helicopter. While six suffered serious injuries, the remaining two were reported to have sustained moderate injuries. Aerial footage captured the chaotic scene, displaying wreckage and debris, including the damaged ladder littered across the roadway.

In response to the crash, both directions of the freeway were temporarily closed to facilitate helicopter landings and evacuations. The southbound lanes were reopened around 8:35 p.m., according to a dispatcher from the Orange County Fire Authority.

Tolen emphasized the importance of securing loads to prevent similar accidents in the future, urging individuals to be cautious with loose items that could pose hazards on the road. He pointed out that such carelessness could lead to tragic consequences.

The Santiago hand crew had just completed their shift combating the Airport fire. This incident comes during a time when firefighters had been making significant progress against wildfires in Southern California, aided by cooler temperatures and increased humidity levels. The Airport fire, which ignited on September 9 in Trabuco Canyon, rapidly spread across the Santa Ana Mountains, consuming tens of thousands of acres in both Riverside and Orange counties.

As of Thursday evening, the fire was reported to be 42% contained, thanks to the firefighters’ efforts to establish and fortify containment lines. Cooler conditions have allowed crews to work longer hours, improving their ability to control the blaze.

In a statement on X, Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley praised the injured firefighters, recognizing them as “tough, true public servants.” She expressed concern for their well-being, urging the community to keep them in their thoughts and prayers. “They worked so hard to save lives and property for us. Now we must help save them,” she said, describing the accident as “too tragic.”

The firefighters had been making strides in their fight against the ongoing wildfires, demonstrating resilience in challenging conditions. As investigations into the crash continue, the focus remains on the recovery of the firefighters and the ongoing efforts to manage the Airport fire.

Efforts continue to stabilize the wildfire situation in Southern California while ensuring the safety of those on the front lines. The community is rallying support for the injured firefighters, underscoring the risks and dedication these brave individuals demonstrate daily.