Sylmar, California – A veteran Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy passed away six months after sustaining severe burns in a fire at a mobile shooting range operated by the department, revealed a family spokesperson on Sunday. Alfredo “Freddy” Flores, 51, from Sylmar, succumbed to his injuries on Saturday evening at Valley Presbyterian Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for third-degree burns he suffered during a tragic incident last October in Castaic.
Flores, a respected 22-year veteran of the department who had served at various sheriff’s offices, including the North County Correctional Facility, Altadena Station, and Court Services West Bureau, was well-regarded both within the department and the community. His unexpected passing has left a significant void for those who knew him, as stated in a message from the Sheriff’s Department.
The unfortunate fire that led to Flores’ injuries erupted at around 9:30 a.m. on October 10th in the trailer situated adjacent to the men’s jail at Pitchess Detention Center. Following the incident, all mobile firing ranges were temporarily closed down by the department, prompting an internal investigation. In addition, federal assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives was enlisted to ensure a comprehensive inquiry into the cause of the fire.
This tragic event marked the fourth occurrence in less than ten years where a mobile shooting range under the auspices of the Sheriff’s Department had caught fire. Failures in equipment maintenance and ventilation have been highlighted as potential contributing factors to such incidents by range experts interviewed by The Times in the past.
In a poignant statement, Flores’ family acknowledged the inherent risks associated with law enforcement but expressed their grief over his loss due to a training exercise gone awry. Despite the inherent dangers of the profession, Flores’ passing has been a stark reminder of the sacrifices often made by those in law enforcement.
Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn also mourned Flores’ loss, emphasizing the tragedy of a routine training exercise turning fatal. The family’s attorney indicated that they were appreciative of the department’s decision to discontinue the use of mobile shooting ranges, hinting at the possibility of legal action in the future.
Funeral arrangements for Flores are yet to be finalized, leaving a somber note in the aftermath of this devastating incident that claimed the life of a dedicated public servant.