A Los Angeles firefighter was killed early Friday morning after the pickup truck he was driving crashed into a big rig on the 605 Freeway in Whittier, authorities said.
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) identified the firefighter as Stan Reza, a 35-year-old department member who had served with the agency for three years.
Officials did not release Reza’s city of residence and did not include a photograph in the department’s announcement.
Crash Happened Early Friday Morning
The fatal collision occurred at approximately 2:20 a.m. Friday on the northbound 605 Freeway near Beverly Boulevard, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Investigators said Reza was driving a pickup truck when it collided with a large commercial truck.
Emergency crews responded to the crash, but Reza was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office later determined that Reza died from blunt traumatic injuries caused by the crash.
LAFD Mourns Loss of Firefighter
The firefighter’s death prompted an outpouring of condolences from the Los Angeles Fire Department.
“Our thoughts are with the firefighter’s family and with every member of this department who is grieving alongside them,” LAFD Chief Jaime Moore said in a statement.
The department asked the public and media to keep Reza’s family, friends, coworkers, and fellow firefighters in their thoughts during the difficult time.
Investigation Underway
The California Highway Patrol is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Authorities have not released additional details about what caused the collision or whether any other factors contributed to the deadly incident.
The LAFD said memorial and service arrangements for Reza will be announced once they are finalized.
The department continues to support Reza’s loved ones and the firefighters who are mourning the loss of one of their colleagues.
