San Clemente holds vigil for fallen firefighter Jon Flagler

Talie Folsom | A&E Editor

January 17, 2022

Los Angeles County firefighter, Jon Flagler, died a heroic death on January 6 after saving a family from a house fire in Ranchos Palos Verdes. Flagler was a well-known San Clemente resident. The community, family, and friends gathered at the Ole Hanson Beach Club on January 10 for a candlelight vigil to honor his life and bravery. 

According to the LA County fire chief, it seems that the fire was in the attic of a house, and Flagler put out a “mayday” as the smoke and fire overpowered him. His crew attempted to quickly locate and save him. They took him to Harbor UCLA Medical Center, where he eventually passed away.

Jon Flagler was only 47. He was a husband to his wife Jenny, and they have two teenage boys, Brody and Jack. “It must be so hard to lose a father, husband, or friend,” senior Grace LaMarre said, “but he will forever be remembered and honored for his heroic sacrifice.”

San Clemente wanted to come together to pay tribute to his bravery as well as his family, so they gathered by North Beach at the Ole Hanson off Pico. There was a public announcement of the event through social media posted by @ocfirefighters on Instagram. Many reposted on Instagram and Facebook to spread the word of the tribute and show their support.

Flagler was a firefighter for 21 years, so a variety of firetrucks from different cities showed up to the candlelight vigil along with the rest of the community. 

“There were around 1000 people that came to pay tribute to him,” sophomore Addie Flynn said. “There were people that spoke, times of prayer, moments of silence, and the lighting of the candles.” The vigil was powerful and was a great act of support to the friends and family of Jon Flagler.

There were also many other ways of tribute including signs and red ribbons placed throughout San Clemente, especially spotted throughout Talega. 

The Firefighters Union established a memorial fund to continue to send more support to the Flagler family.

 

There has currently been no word of the plans for funeral arrangements.

Our community will remember Jon Flagler as a local hero and continue to send love and support to the affected family and friends.