Monrovia Peak Fire Hit by Rock Fatality 1932

Charles White, a firefighter employed by California's Angeles National Forest to help suppress the Monrovia Peak Fire, was killed when he was struck by a rolling rock while his crew hiked into this remote fire. The Monrovia Peak Fire was ignited by lost hikers seeking assistance. Both a rescue party and firefighters were mobilized to the scene.The hikers were safely evacuated and received medical care.

Hiking up the steep slope of Sawpit Canyon just north of the city of Monrovia, White was roped-up with a crew of 12 organized by the county sheriff and dispatched by the Angeles NF Dispatcher. As they ascended the slope at night, a rock was dislodged and could be heard crashing through the brush. Warning shouts of "Rock!" were called out. But in the dark, the rock was difficult to see and avoid. After the rock had passed by, the crew leader called each crewmember's name to assure accountability. White did not respond. He was found a very short distance down the slope. It was determined that he had been killed instantly from the forceful impact of the rock.

Ultimately, the Monrovia Peak Fire burned approximately 30 acres.