Community rallies behind beloved Pasadena firefighter paralyzed in off-duty accident

Community members are rallying together to help a young Pasadena firefighter as he recovers in the ICU from an off-duty accident that loved ones say left him paralyzed from the waist down. According to the Pasadena Fire Department, Armen Hagopian, a firefighter paramedic who recently helped battle the deadly Eaton Fire, suffered a severe spinal cord injury from a motorcycle accident on Tuesday, May 20. “For years, Armen has run into burning buildings and responded to emergencies to protect the lives of others,” one of his crewmembers told KTLA. “Now, after sustaining critical injuries, he finds himself on the other side of the emergency call.” The tragic incident has purportedly left Hagopian with limited sensation and mobility, and little to no indication that his condition will improve. Hagopian, described as a “dedicated hero” in his community, has served the city for over six years. He was most recently assigned to Firehouse 36, where, according to his team’s Instagram post, “he’s known for his dedication, skill and commitment to the citizens he serves and those alike.” A union member set up a GoFundMe to raise financial support for the beloved firefighter, hoping to help ease the costs of his medical care, rehabilitation and necessary home adjustments. “This story is about more than a firefighter’s accident – it’s about resilience, the strength of community, and the hope that we can come together when one of our own needs us most,” said Hagopian’s crewmember. In the GoFundMe page description, the author says Hagopian has spent his career selflessly protecting others, “risking his life to save the lives and homes of many in our community.” “Now,” the description says, “it is our turn to rally around him and support him in any way we can.”