Additional Coverage:
Tragedy Strikes Pacoima Neighborhood as Fireworks Spark Devastating Blaze
Los Angeles, CA – A man lost his life and five others were injured Thursday night in a Pacoima neighborhood fire involving a large quantity of fireworks. The blaze rapidly spread to four properties, necessitating a massive response from over 130 firefighters.
Shortly after 9 p.m., the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) raced to the scene where a detached garage, engulfed in flames fueled by exploding fireworks, threatened surrounding homes and dry brush. The exploding fireworks significantly hampered firefighting efforts and contributed to the fire’s rapid spread.
One resident described the scene, recalling the impact of the initial explosions and the ensuing chaos as fireworks continued to ignite. “It felt like an explosion…the fireworks started going off and sooner or later all these fires started coming,” the resident stated.
After battling the inferno for nearly an hour, firefighters extinguished the blaze. Tragically, a man in his 30s was found deceased.
A 33-year-old woman remains hospitalized in critical but stable condition. Four other individuals received treatment at the scene for smoke inhalation.
Several animals were also injured, with at least one dog transported to an emergency veterinary hospital.
The fire ultimately consumed four homes, multiple accessory dwelling units, and a parked vehicle across four properties. Adding to the complexity of the situation, a gas leak and downed live electrical wires required the intervention of the gas company and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power.
LAFD Firefighter David Ortiz stressed the importance of leaving fireworks displays to trained professionals, highlighting the inherent dangers of handling such volatile materials, especially in dry Southern California conditions. He urged a shift in community culture, encouraging residents to attend professional fireworks shows rather than risking their safety and the safety of their neighbors. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.