An explosion in Wilmington, Southern Los Angeles, left at least 10 firefighters injured early Thursday morning, with three reported to be in critical condition. The incident occurred just before 7 a.m. when the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) responded to a vehicle fire at 1120 N. Alameda St. in Wilmington.

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According to an emergency alert from the LAFD, firefighters were attempting to extinguish a fire on a truck with pressurized tanks when the explosion took place. The cause of the fire and the circumstances leading to the explosion are still under investigation.

Nicholas Prange, a spokesperson for the LAFD, stated that investigators are working to determine whether the truck was powered by compressed natural gas or was transporting tanks in the trailer bed.

Following the explosion, at least seven firefighters were transported to Harbor-UCLA Medical Center for treatment. Among them, two firefighters were critically injured, while the remaining suffered varying degrees of injuries. Additional firefighters were evaluated at the scene while awaiting further medical assistance.

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As investigations into the cause of the explosion continue, authorities are emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of first responders. The community is urged to remain vigilant and to cooperate with emergency responders to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The LAFD, along with other agencies, remains committed to providing updates on the situation as more information becomes available.