Esparto, California: Seven people remain unaccounted for following a devastating explosion at a northern California fireworks warehouse on Tuesday, according to officials.
The explosion, which occurred around 5:50 p.m. PDT, followed a fire at the compound near Esparto, located about 36 miles northwest of Sacramento.
Explosion and Fire Incident
The cause of the fire, which led to the explosion, is still under investigation. The Esparto Fire Protection District, along with Cal Fire, has been working diligently to locate the missing individuals, who have yet to be identified.
Officials confirmed that two people were injured in the incident but have since received treatment and are now reported to be okay.
Ongoing Investigation
Chief Curtis Lawrence of the Esparto Fire Protection District mentioned during a Wednesday press conference that the authorities are collaborating with the property owner, an active pyrotechnic license holder, to determine whether the activities at the facility complied with both California’s pyrotechnic requirements and federal explosive storage regulations.
The authorities are utilizing unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) to remotely monitor the area and assess any potential hazards as part of their investigation.
Evacuations and Site Assessment
Evacuation orders for the immediate area are still in place, with officials working to evaluate the situation and safely return residents to their homes as soon as possible.
“This is a very complex and ongoing investigation,” Chief Lawrence said. “It’s a very complex and ongoing incident that is not completely terminated or mitigated.”
Rescheduled Fireworks Show
In light of the explosion, a joint statement from Yuba and Sutter counties confirmed that their fireworks show, originally scheduled for Friday, has been rescheduled to Saturday night.
The counties expressed their sympathy, stating, “This decision was made after thoughtful discussion and out of respect for those impacted by the explosion in Yolo County.”
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“Our hearts remain with the community of Esparto, the County of Yolo, those harmed, their families, and all those affected by this heartbreaking event,” the counties’ statement read.
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