ATF investigates Northern California fireworks explosion; 7 warehouse workers still missing

An investigation into the cause of a fireworks explosion at a Northern California warehouse where seven are missing continued to grow Thursday with additional personnel on scene and officials requesting the help of the state fire marshal.

At a press conference Thursday, Yolo County Undersheriff Matt Davis asked for patience as authorities are working to get the families of the missing answers about their loved ones.

“It’s important that we operate safely, carefully and securely and in a dignified manner that respects all involved,” Davis said.” We cannot move forward until the scene is safe, and I have full confidence that the public safety individuals who are working to do that are doing everything they can and with the urgency that is necessary right now.”

“We cannot move forward and risk any more injury to anyone else on this scene,” he said.

On Tuesday, news helicopters overhead captured the dramatic moment a fire inside a warehouse filled with fireworks sparked an explosion, sending white-hot sparks streaking through the air and starting a wildfire that continues to burn.

The pyrotechnics business that operated at the site confirmed that an unspecified number of its employees were “lost” when the warehouse blew up, triggering a days-long evacuation for nearby communities.

On Wednesday evening, Devastating Pyrotechnics released a statement saying seven of its workers were “unaccounted for” at their warehouse in Esparto, about 40 miles northwest of Sacramento.

“Our hearts and thoughts are with those we lost, their families, and everyone impacted in our community,” the company said in a statement. “Our focus will remain on those directly impacted by this tragedy, and we will cooperate fully with the proper authorities in their investigation.”

What started the fire and subsequent explosion is under investigation by local, state and federal agencies including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Authorities are also checking if the facility was in line with requirements to operate as a pyrotechnics facility and have requested the Office of the State Fire Marshal to participate in the investigation.

The explosion also started the Oakdale fire, which has burned 78 acres and was 60% contained Thursday morning.

Syanna Ruiz said her boyfriend, Jesus Ramos, 18, were working at the warehouse on Tuesday when the fire started, according to the Sacramento Bee. Ruiz told the paper her boyfriend’s brother and stepbrother were among the missing.

But as of Thursday, officials said crews were still unable to go in and do a full inspection of the scene because of the risk from unexploded fireworks. The Esparto Fire Protection District were working to build safe access to the site so investigators can search the location.