(L.A.) Stephen Choma, 61, Died in Lancaster

Case Number: 2025-03179

Los Angeles County is reporting the death of a 61-year-old White/Caucasian male that occurred at a private residence.

The coroner’s office has identified the man as Stephen Choma.

Manner of Death: Accident

Cause of Death: Combined Effects of Thermal Injuries and Inhalation of Combustion Products

Other Significant Conditions: Idiopathic Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Combined Effects of Methamphetamine, Cocaine, Fentanyl, and Phencyclidine

RIP STEPHEN CHOMA (August 7, 1963 – February 18, 2025)

Formal pronouncement of death was made on Tuesday at 7:47 a.m.

Ruling by the deputy medical examiner was published in mid-May, presumably after the results of tox screening had come back from the lab.

Drug intoxication significantly increases the risk of death in fires. Research shows that substance abuse impairs judgment, mobility, and the ability to respond to emergencies, making individuals more vulnerable to fatal outcomes during fire incidents.