On Friday evening, a firefighter was injured in a rollover crash while responding to the ongoing Canyon Fire. The incident, captured on video, shows a dramatic rescue operation involving a helicopter after a truck overturned in a grassy area of Romero Canyon. According to the Los Angeles County Fire Department, the crash occurred around 6:20 p.m. The injured firefighter was airlifted to a local hospital and is currently reported to be alert and talking.
Fire officials have confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the rollover crash. This incident comes amidst the challenging conditions posed by the Canyon Fire, which has burned approximately 5,370 acres in both Ventura County and Los Angeles County. The fire is currently 28% contained, thanks to the tireless efforts of the firefighting teams battling bone-dry brush and extreme heat.
Firefighters are grappling with dry, rugged terrain, soaring temperatures, and low humidity levels. Despite these challenges, the Los Angeles County Fire Department reported that they managed to limit fire growth to just over 500 acres, thanks to air attack and ground crews who continued their efforts through the intense heat on Friday. This progress has allowed officials to downgrade evacuation levels in several affected zones.
Three firefighters sustained minor injuries during the operation and were transported to a local hospital, where they are expected to make a full recovery. Andrew Dowd of Ventura County Fire stated, “This afternoon, we're starting to see temperatures rise and winds pick up. There’s still a risk here. The fire is still burning, and we must remain vigilant until it is fully contained.”
Despite the rapid spread of the fire on Thursday, no homes were reported lost, marking a significant achievement for the firefighters. Local resident Mike Kavathas expressed his gratitude, stating, “Our fire department out here in Santa Clarita is incredible. They’ve saved us numerous times, and I really appreciate them a lot.”
Evacuation warnings remain in effect for several communities near the fire, with Castaic High School closed due to its proximity to the flames. One man from Castaic shared his experience of losing a World War II-era shed to the fire, while firefighters successfully saved his home. He recounted, “I got my golf cart and called the fire department, pleading for water. They arrived quickly, dismantled the metal structure, and doused it with water, saving my home.”
Many residents in the Hasley Canyon area are thankful their homes remain intact as the fire rages nearby. Castaic resident Geri Aebersold described her anxious night, stating, “It’s been a long night just watching the fire.” Another resident, Rod Meyer, faced a different fate, losing outbuildings but managing to save his home. “I called the fire department and they were incredibly responsive,” he said.
While some families evacuated, others, like the Martins, chose to stay behind to care for their animals, including their miniature pony, Izzie. Terry Martin noted the breathing conditions improved once the winds picked up, saying, “This morning was the worst. With no wind, the smoke settled like a blanket, making it hard to breathe.” Thankfully, the wind has since cleared some of the smoke, offering relief to the community.
