Search Underway for Seven Missing After Devastating Fireworks Warehouse Explosion in Northern California

Authorities are intensifying their search for seven individuals who remain unaccounted for following a massive explosion at a fireworks warehouse in rural northern California. The incident, which occurred Tuesday evening near Esparto, sent colossal plumes of black smoke into the air, triggered widespread evacuations, and caused significant power outages across the region.

The Tuesday blast ignited a barrage of fireworks, leading to a massive blaze that spawned multiple spot fires and caused a building to collapse. Cal Fire confirmed late Wednesday morning that first responders are actively working to locate the missing, with a woman telling CBS News that her boyfriend and two brothers-in-law are among those lost. Residents in the farming community, located approximately 40 miles north-west of Sacramento, have been advised to avoid the area for several days as the fire cools and explosives experts prepare to safely assess the site.

The Yolo County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation into the cause of the explosion, which also destroyed fireworks intended for upcoming Fourth of July celebrations in nearby Yuba and Sutter counties, prompting reassessments of their festivities. Governor Gavin Newsom’s office has deployed state ground and air resources, with the State Fire Marshal’s arson and bomb investigation team on site, underscoring the severity of the incident. Nearly 2,200 Pacific Gas & Electric customers were impacted by the power outages, and the fire, which scorched surrounding agricultural fields, was held at nearly 80 acres as of Wednesday morning.

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