A pyrotechnical business in northern California confirmed that when a warehouse full of fireworks exploded, unspecified employees were “lost”, triggering wildfires and prolonged evacuations in nearby communities.
On Wednesday night, devastating pyrotechnic technology issued a statement saying that seven of its workers were “unaware” in the warehouse in Esparto, about 40 miles northwest of Sacramento.
“Our heart and mind are with the people we have lost, their families and everyone who has an impact on our community,” the company said in a statement. “Our focus will remain on the people that this tragedy directly affects and we will work fully with the appropriate authorities.”
As of Thursday morning, officials have not confirmed that anyone was killed in the explosion.
The causes of the massive explosion are under investigation, including alcohol, tobacco, guns and explosives. Authorities are also checking whether the facility meets the requirements for operating as a pyrotechnic facility.
The explosion also began the Oakdale fire, which burned 78 acres and accounted for 60% on Thursday morning.
Sacramento Bee said Syanna Ruiz said her boyfriend, 18-year-old boyfriend, Jesus Ramos, opened fire in a warehouse Tuesday. Ruiz told the newspaper that her boyfriend’s brother and step-brother were missing.
As of Thursday, officials said crew members were still unable to access the site for inspection due to the risk of unexploded fireworks. Members of the Esparto Fire Zone are working to establish safe access to the site so investigators can search the site.
