Six of the eight firefighters in an Orange County Fire Department fire truck were critically injured in a rollover crash in Irvine, California.
Tragedy struck the Orange County Fire Department on Sunday when a fire truck carrying eight firefighters rolled over, leaving six critically injured.
According to the fire department, the crash occurred at approximately 2:25 p.m. in the city of Irvine, California. The fire truck was responding to a call when it veered off the road and overturned.
California Firefighters Critically Injured After Fire Truck Rollover Crash
Six of the firefighters sustained critical injuries and were transported to local hospitals for medical treatment. The remaining two firefighters were injured but are expected to be released sometime Monday.
The cause of the crash is under investigation, and authorities are working to determine what led to the vehicle rolling over.
California Firefighters Critically Injured After Fire Truck Rollover Crash
The injured firefighters have been identified as Fire Captain Brian Vandiver, Firefighter-Engineer David Wenkman, Firefighter-Paramedic Elizabeth Cotton, Firefighter-Paramedic Matt McLaughlin, Firefighter-Paramedic Adam Yurk, and Firefighter-Paramedic Matt Naylor.
Vandiver, Wenkman, and Cotton are in critical condition, while McLaughlin, Yurk, and Naylor are in serious condition.
California Firefighters Critically Injured After Fire Truck Rollover Crash
Irvine Mayor Farrah Khan expressed her condolences and support for the firefighters and their families.
"Our hearts are heavy tonight as we pray for the recovery of the injured firefighters," Khan said in a statement. "We are grateful for their bravery and service, and we will do everything in our power to support them and their loved ones during this difficult time."
California Firefighters Critically Injured After Fire Truck Rollover Crash
The Orange County Fire Department has set up a fund to support the injured firefighters and their families. Donations can be made at www.ocfafoundation.org.
The crash is a reminder of the dangers faced by firefighters every day. They put their lives on the line to protect their communities, and our thoughts and prayers are with them and their families during this difficult time.
