Los Angeles, California – The Los Angeles Fire Department honored two firefighters killed in a warehouse fire that investigators later determined was deliberately set.
According to the Los Angeles Fire Department, Fireman Paul R. Widrig Jr., 24, and Fireman Theodore A. Currie, 34, died Feb. 22, 1972, after a mezzanine floor collapsed inside a one-story warehouse in South Central Los Angeles. The collapse buried both men under approximately five feet of debris shortly before midnight.
The victims were members of Engine Company 33 and Platoon C. Officials said the fire was well involved when thirteen companies arrived on scene. Widrig and Currie were among four firefighters from Station 33 who entered the rear of the structure with a 2½-inch hose line before the collapse occurred.
Two other firefighters — Capt. Sam Diannitto and Fireman Otto McClung — narrowly escaped without injury, according to the department.
Firefighters worked for more than an hour in intense heat to recover the bodies of their colleagues. During suppression efforts, crews were reportedly struck with rocks and bottles thrown by individuals gathered nearby. Investigators later concluded the fire had been intentionally set.
Widrig had served 18 months with LAFD. Currie was a 10-year veteran. On Feb. 25, 1972, separate memorial services were held. Widrig was survived by his 19-year-old wife and infant son, while Currie was survived by his wife and three sons.
The anniversary remains a solemn reminder of risks firefighters face in arson-related incidents.
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