8 O.C. Firefighters Injured in Truck Crash Returning from Airport Fire

Eight firefighters from the Orange County Fire Authority’s Santiago hand crew were injured on Thursday evening while battling the Airport fire. Six of them suffered serious injuries after their vehicle rolled over on State Route 241 in Irvine, California, officials reported.

The incident occurred around 6:45 p.m. when the crew’s vehicle tried to avoid a ladder that had fallen onto the freeway, according to California Highway Patrol spokesperson Jeremy Tolen.

All eight firefighters were airlifted from the scene; six sustained severe injuries while the other two were moderately hurt. Scenes captured by aerial footage revealed wreckage scattered across the road, including a dented metal ladder and debris.

Tolen explained that the accident unfolded after a car ahead of the firefighting vehicle swerved to dodge the ladder. The driver of the fire vehicle also attempted to avoid the obstacle but ended up hitting the guardrail on the right shoulder before the vehicle overturned.

In response to the accident, both directions of the freeway were temporarily closed to facilitate helicopter landings for evacuations. A dispatcher for the Orange County Fire Authority, who chose to remain anonymous, confirmed that the southbound lanes were reopened around 8:35 p.m.

Tolen emphasized the importance of securing loads properly, particularly highlighting that loose items like ladders can contribute to dangerous situations such as this one.

The Santiago crew was concluding their shift fighting the Airport fire when the accident occurred. Orange County Supervisor Katrina Foley expressed her concern for the injured firefighters on social media platform X, describing them as “tough, true public servants.” She called for prayers for their recovery, underlining the dedication they show in saving lives and protecting property.

Foley stated, “Now we must help save them. The accident tonight is too tragic.” Her comments reflected a strong sense of community support for the heroes of the firefighting team.

In recent days, firefighters had been making significant progress against wildfires that have been challenging Southern California. Cooler temperatures and increased humidity were aiding efforts against the blazes, including the Airport fire, which broke out on September 9 in Trabuco Canyon and rapidly spread through the Santa Ana Mountains. Within a matter of days, the fire consumed tens of thousands of acres across Riverside and Orange counties.

As of Thursday evening, firefighting crews had managed to achieve 42% containment of the Airport fire. Tolen indicated that the improved weather conditions allowed teams to establish better containment lines and work longer shifts in the more favorable temperatures.

This unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder of the risks that firefighters face daily while protecting communities from the destructive forces of wildfires.