Pasadena Firefighter Who Helped Battle Eaton Fire Paralyzed In Motorcycle Crash

A Pasadena firefighter who helped battle the deadly Eaton Fire earlier this year was paralyzed from the waist down in an off-duty motorcycle accident, prompting an outpouring of community support.

Armen Hagopian, a firefighter paramedic at Station 36, suffered a severe spinal cord injury in the May 20 crash. He is reportedly paralyzed from the waist down with limited sensation and is recovering in the Intensive Care Unit. Fellow firefighters said there is “no indication that his condition will improve,” according to ABC7 Los Angeles.

The 6-year veteran played a role in Pasadena Fire Department’s response to the Eaton Fire in January.

“To see him in that condition is really difficult,” said Ani Khachoyan, Hagopian’s cousin, told local media.

A firefighter told KTLA the situation highlights the risks firefighters face both on and off duty.

“For years, Armen has run into burning buildings and responded to emergencies to protect the lives of others,” the crewmember said. “Now, after sustaining critical injuries, he finds himself on the other side of the emergency call.”

Colleagues described Hagopian as dedicated to his work and the community he serves.

Raffy Bitchakdjian, President of Pasadena Firefighters Local 809, said the injury has deeply affected the department.

“It hits you hard, you know? Most of the time when you see us at emergencies, we keep our composure when it’s out in the public. We’re trained for all these situations, but when it’s one of your own, it just drives a little different,” Bitchakdjian told ABC7.

Station 36 colleagues have maintained a presence at Hagopian’s bedside since the accident.

A union member established a GoFundMe campaign to cover medical costs, rehabilitation and home modifications. The fundraiser has raised more than $86,000.

Campaign organizers wrote that Hagopian “has dedicated his career to selflessly protecting others” and “spent days battling the flames of the Eaton fire, risking his life to save the lives and homes of many in our community.”

The Eaton Fire began Jan. 7 in the San Gabriel Mountains and was fully contained Jan. 31 after burning for 24 days. The blaze particularly devastated the foothill community of Altadena.

Bitchakdjian described Hagopian’s personality as uplifting for the firehouse.

“Armen is honestly the kind of guy that comes by the station, definitely is a fun day. He’s a big jokester. He’s got a good heart, hard worker,” Bitchakdjian said.

Family members expressed confidence in Hagopian’s determination to recover.

“He’s so funny. He’s so positive. He’s such a hard worker, that I have no doubt that he’s gonna fight,” Khachoyan told local media. “Whatever he has to do, he’s going to do it.”