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Tragedy Strikes Simi Valley Home on Eve of July Fourth
SIMI VALLEY, Calif. — A devastating fire claimed the life of one person on the eve of Independence Day. The fire, ignited by fireworks explosions in the garage of a Simi Valley home, quickly spread to the attic and engulfed the residence.
Ventura County Fire Department crews responded to the scene on Edmund Street around midday Thursday after reports of explosions rocked the neighborhood. The Simi Valley Police Department confirmed that fireworks were the cause of the blaze and the subsequent fatality.
A neighbor, Thomas Kudlick, recounted the harrowing experience, describing a “big explosion” followed by the rapid collapse of the garage. He witnessed further explosions as the fire intensified and smoke billowed from the home.
Authorities have not yet released any details about the victim. The area surrounding the incident remained closed off for some time as firefighters battled the flames. An investigation into the incident is underway.