A massive fireworks explosion rocked a warehouse in Esparto, Northern California, on Tuesday evening. As a result, seven people remain missing, and two others suffered injuries. Authorities continued search efforts on Wednesday.
Search Efforts Continue
According to Cal Fire, the state's firefighting agency, “Seven individuals remain unaccounted for.” Additionally, the agency said, “First responders and investigators are working diligently with the property owner to determine the whereabouts of those individuals.”
Meanwhile, officials located the two injured people. Fortunately, both victims are now out of danger.
Warehouse Still Unsafe to Enter
Despite efforts, firefighters have not yet entered the warehouse. The building remains dangerous due to unexploded fireworks. Esparto Fire Chief Curtis Lawrence described the situation as “very complex and risky.” He added during a press briefing, “There were... reports of a large debris field of large pieces of shrapnel spread out across a large area.”
Therefore, crews set up a wide perimeter and stayed back to avoid further injuries. Chief Lawrence explained, “We maintained a wide perimeter... and kept our responders in a safe location.”
Frustration Grows Among Families
At the same time, some family members of the missing expressed deep frustration. During the press conference, a worried woman interrupted officials. She said her boyfriend and two brothers-in-law were still missing.
Angrily, she told responders, “You’re not focusing on the people who are stuck in the warehouse, possibly dead.” She continued, “People have possibly lost their lives because of you guys not doing your job well enough.” Officials did not reply to her accusations during the briefing.
Towns Cancel July 4 Fireworks
As a consequence of the explosion, several nearby towns canceled their planned Independence Day fireworks displays. These events were scheduled for Friday, July 4.
In response to the public concern, Cal Fire issued a statement. The agency said, “This type of incident is very rare, as facilities like this are required to not only follow our stringent California pyrotechnic requirements, but also federal explosive storage requirements.”
Investigation Remains Ongoing
For now, the cause of the fire is still under investigation. Rescue teams are also trying to find the missing and continue monitoring for further dangers.