In the early hours of Thursday morning, a devastating explosion occurred in the Wilmington area of Los Angeles, involving a natural gas truck. According to authorities, the incident resulted in several injuries to firefighters from the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD).

At least nine firefighters were reported to have been injured in the blast and were subsequently rushed to the hospital for treatment. Tragically, two of the firefighters are in critical condition. However, it was a relief that the semi-truck driver emerged unharmed from the incident.

Dr. Molly Deane, a trauma surgeon at Harbor UCLA Medical Center, provided an update on the injured firefighters, stating that they were being treated for burns, blast injuries, and inhalation-related injuries. One of the critically injured firefighters required intubation and was transferred to the Los Angeles General Medical Center, which houses a specialized Burn Center unit.

Dr. Deane also mentioned that, considering the extent of the explosion, it was remarkable that none of the firefighters sustained more severe injuries. The explosion was captured on a resident's Ring camera, providing a dramatic visualization of the incident.

The initial emergency response was prompted by a fire that had engulfed the semi-truck located in the 1100 block of North Alameda Street near Henry Ford Avenue. The truck, unusual for running on two 100-gallon compressed natural gas tanks instead of diesel fuel, posed a unique challenge for the firefighters.

As the firefighters approached the truck to extinguish the flames, one of the pressurized cylinders caused a devastating explosion. This occurred approximately six minutes after the firefighters' arrival on the scene. Fortunately, the second tank did not detonate, although it is still emitting gas, according to Los Angeles City Fire Captain Erik Scott.

A hazardous material specialist from LAFD was dispatched to monitor the air quality at the site of the explosion. Additionally, a 500-foot perimeter was set up by the firefighters to ensure the safety of both responders and residents in the surrounding area.

Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley spoke at a press conference following her visit with the injured firefighters, expressing her deep concern and stating that the incident will remain etched in her memory. The cause of the initial fire that led to the explosion is currently unknown, and an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

As the injured firefighters receive necessary medical attention and the investigation continues, the LAFD and the local community are reminded of the risks and dangers faced by emergency responders in their tireless efforts to keep others safe.