New York City: A massive explosion ripped through a fireworks warehouse in Esparto, Yolo County, California, on Tuesday, July 2, 2025, just after 9 a.m. Authorities say seven people are missing and several others injured after a stockpile of illegally stored commercial-grade fireworks detonated, sparking a large fire and forcing evacuations. The cause appears to be linked to unsafe handling and unauthorized storage of fireworks inside the facility.
Thick black smoke billowed over the rural community as firefighters struggled to contain the blaze. Witnesses described hearing multiple blasts, with one saying it “felt like a bomb went off.” Debris scattered across several blocks. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but the structure was too unstable for immediate search operations. Helicopters circled overhead while ground crews worked to douse the flames and clear a perimeter around the warehouse.
Local officials confirmed the warehouse was not legally permitted to store fireworks. Agencies including the FBI, ATF, Cal Fire, and Yolo County Sheriff’s Department are now involved in a joint investigation. Authorities have not yet released the names of the missing individuals, and the search is ongoing as fire crews work cautiously amid the threat of secondary explosions. Nearby residents were told to stay indoors or evacuate as the site remains volatile.
An explosion at a fireworks warehouse in northern California caused several fires, sending black smoke into the air and forcing evacuations, authorities said. There were no immediate reports of injuries. pic.twitter.com/V2d26WGas5
— The Associated Press (@AP) July 2, 2025
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3-Bullet Summary
- Explosion Site: A fireworks warehouse exploded in Esparto, CA on July 2, leaving 7 people missing and sparking a massive fire.
- Illegal Storage: The facility was not licensed for commercial fireworks storage, prompting a federal investigation.
- Emergency Response: Firefighters, ATF, and FBI are on the scene as the fire continues and evacuations remain in effect.
What Caused the Esparto Fireworks Explosion?
Preliminary reports suggest the explosion was triggered by unsafe storage and handling of explosive materials inside the warehouse. The facility allegedly held large quantities of commercial-grade fireworks ahead of the July 4 holiday without proper licensing. Officials believe the heat or static discharge may have ignited the stockpile, causing a chain reaction of blasts.
Who Are the Missing?
Authorities have confirmed that seven individuals remain unaccounted for—all believed to be warehouse workers or contractors present at the time of the explosion. Family members have gathered nearby, awaiting updates. Rescue teams are unable to enter the core structure due to ongoing flare-ups and risk of collapse. Names have not been released pending identification and notifications.
How Firefighters Are Handling the Ongoing Blaze
More than 75 emergency personnel, including teams from Cal Fire, local departments, and federal agents, are on-site. The fire is still active but partially contained. Helicopters are conducting aerial assessments while fire trucks surround the facility to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby homes and fields. A command center has been established near the evacuation zone.
Legal and Safety Fallout
Officials have already confirmed that the warehouse was not authorized to store fireworks, raising serious legal and regulatory concerns. The incident could result in criminal charges for the warehouse owners, as well as state and federal penalties. Investigators are also reviewing whether the facility was previously cited or flagged for violations.
Location and Area Impact
The blast occurred in a commercial zone on the outskirts of Esparto, a small rural community in Yolo County. Evacuations remain in place for nearby homes and businesses. Residents up to a mile away reported feeling the impact. Air quality warnings have also been issued due to chemical smoke from the burning fireworks.
