Several members of an Orange County Fire Authority hand crew were injured in a rollover crash while leaving the Airport Fire lines and are currently hospitalized, with at least four in critical condition.
OCFA Chief Brian Fennessy stated that the injured firefighters face a challenging recovery ahead and will likely remain hospitalized for an extended period.
The incident occurred when a transport truck carrying the hand crew swerved and rolled over on the northbound Foothill (241) Toll Road in Irvine after completing a 12-hour shift on the fire line. Eight firefighters were injured in the crash, with four of them sustaining more severe injuries.
While two firefighters were treated and released at Hoag Medical Center, the rest were taken to various hospitals for treatment. Dr. Humberto Sauri of OC Global Medical Center provided updates on the firefighters’ conditions, with two remaining in the intensive care unit.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation, with reports suggesting that the driver swerved to avoid an obstacle on the roadway. However, Fennessy could not confirm this information.
Fennessy commended the paramedics who responded to the scene and praised their professionalism in caring for their injured colleagues. Both hand crews have been removed from the fire lines, with crews from other agencies taking over their duties.
While details about the injured firefighters were not disclosed, Fennessy emphasized the demanding nature of being part of a hand crew. He described the job as physically strenuous and requiring extreme fitness due to exposure to harsh conditions.
