Alameda Street Explosion: LAFD Crew Saves Nine Critically Injured Firefighters

Valor 2025’s Medal of Merit: Captain I Christopher Sebourn and Letter of Special Commendation: Engineer David Roberts, Firefighter III Kari Field and Firefighter III Joseph Coleman What began as a routine morning quickly turned into chaos. An explosion sent thick smoke rising over Wilmington, leaving nine firefighters in desperate need of help. With no time to think, one crew made a split-second decision that would change everything. Captain Christopher Sebourn took command under pressure, directing rescue efforts with calm and precision. Engineer David Roberts navigated traffic to deliver his crew to the scene in just 72 seconds, then joined the effort to carry the injured to safety. Firefighter Kari Field jumped into paramedic mode, stripping burned gear, triaging the critically injured, and protecting those still in danger. Firefighter Joseph Coleman got behind the wheel, coordinating with the nearest hospital, Harbor-UCLA, and transporting injured firefighters for urgent care. Their calm under pressure, teamwork, and quick action turned a scene of devastation into one of survival. - Special thanks to Solasta Media Group. - VALOR is the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation's annual awards ceremony honoring exemplary LAFD members for their outstanding service above and beyond the call of duty. This exciting celebration of their life-saving actions took place on Wednesday, November 19th, at Dodger Stadium. - Stay up to date on the LAFD Foundation! Instagram:   / lafdfoundation   TikTok:   / lafdfoundation   Facebook:   / lafdfoundation   LinkedIn:   / lafdfoundation   X: https://x.com/LAFDFoundation