Los Angeles County Firefighter Mourned Following Death in Quarry Explosion

LITTLEROCK, Calif.—Los Angeles County officials June 15 are mourning a 19-year veteran firefighter who was killed when part of a burning front-loader exploded at a Littlerock quarry. “My deepest condolences to his family and the other firefighters at Station 93,” said Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger, whose district includes the Littlerock area, adding that her “heart is heavy” after learning about the death Friday of firefighter Andrew Pontious. “It’s a sobering reminder of the dangers our first responders face every day,” she said. “We owe them our steadfast support as they grapple with this loss. I’m committed to ensuring our fire personnel are connected with needed mental health support as they grieve.”...