Firefighter overcome by smoke dies after helping save family, California officials say

A Los Angeles County Fire Department firefighter died early Thursday, Jan. 6, after being overcome by smoke while battling a Rancho Palos Verdes house fire, officials said.

“Those brave firefighters responded and were able to save the family inside, they were able to get them out to safety, but tragically, one of our own Los Angeles County firefighters lost his life in the effort,” Supervisor Janice Hahn said, according to the Los Angeles Times.

In a Twitter post, Hahn called his death “devastating.” She said “his bravery and sacrifice will not be forgotten.”

The firefighter called for help before collapsing inside the home, KCBS reported. He was taken in critical condition to a hospital, where he died.

The firefighter’s name has not been released, but he began his firefighting career in 2002 and leaves a wife and two teenage sons, the station reported.

“Today’s loss was a reminder that life is fragile, and firefighters’ lives are fragile,” said Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Ralph Terrazas, the Los Angeles Times reported.

“Please keep the fallen firefighter’s family, friends, and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers,” the Los Angeles County Fire Department said in an Instagram post.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the cause of the fire, KTTV reported.

This story was originally published January 6, 2022 at 11:39 AM with the headline "Firefighter overcome by smoke dies after helping save family, California officials say."