Four L.A. Firefighters Injured in Fall Through Floor of Burning Building
Four Los Angeles firefighters were injured Thursday when they fell through the floor of a burning house in the 4000 block of West Marathon Street, near Los Angeles City College.
Fire Department spokesman Jim Williamson said the house, which had been scheduled for demolition, was fully involved in flames when the first engine companies arrived and that a hose team went inside to make sure no one was trapped.
Flames were burning beneath the floor that gave way and “their (the firefighters’) legs were dangling,” he said.
All four men were rescued within minutes. Dale Robinson, 28, of Lake Arrowhead was reported in critical condition with burns over 40% of his body. Michael Sauber, 44, of Alhambra and Richard Larson, 30, of La Crescenta were in fair condition with burns on 20% and 30% of their bodies. The three were taken to the burn center at Sherman Oaks Community Hospital.
The fourth firefighter, less seriously injured, was released after treatment for minor burns and smoke inhalation.
Cause of the blaze was under investigation.
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