San Gabriel Homes Evacuated After Illegal Homemade Fireworks Discovery
Several homes were evacuated after the discovery of illegal homemade fireworks in San Gabriel, prompting a significant multi-agency response.
Police Respond to Suspicious Package Report
There was a large police and fire presence near a home where a suspicious package was reported by a postal carrier, just two days before the Fourth of July holiday. Over the scene in the 1800 block of San Gabriel Boulevard, a large, multi-agency law enforcement presence was observed.
According to a press release from the San Gabriel Police Department, officers were notified by the United States Postal Service about the suspicious package in the 1800 block of San Gabriel Boulevard around 3:30 p.m. Wednesday. When officers arrived at the scene, postal inspectors spoke with someone at the location who admitted to possessing illegal fireworks. A man was subsequently arrested.
The Los Angeles County Bomb Squad was deployed and worked diligently to safely remove the homemade illegal fireworks found on the property.
Evacuation and Road Closure
As a precaution, homes and businesses within a 500-foot perimeter of the residence were evacuated. Residents have since been allowed to return to their homes.
Busy San Gabriel Boulevard between Valley Boulevard and Marshall Street was shut down for hours during the incident, causing significant traffic disruptions.
The Growing Threat of Illegal Fireworks
Police and firefighters are taking illegal fireworks seriously, given the severe dangers they pose to the public. The risks were tragically highlighted recently in Northern California, where seven people remain unaccounted for after a massive explosion on Tuesday at a fireworks factory outside Sacramento.
One of the missing is 18-year-old Jesus Ramos, for whom Tuesday was his first day on the job. His brothers are also among the unaccounted. “We had a baby on the way,” his girlfriend shared through tears. “They were all three incredible men who had so much coming for them. I just pray that some way, somehow, they’re OK.”
Tragic Reminders from Past Explosions
This explosion brings up painful memories of several incidents in Southern California, underscoring the critical dangers associated with illegal fireworks.
- In 2021, the LAPD Bomb Squad overloaded a containment tank in an effort to dispose of confiscated illegal fireworks. This resulted in the city paying out $21 million to residents whose homes were damaged.
- That same year, illegal fireworks exploded in the backyard of an Ontario home, killing two people, damaging multiple homes, and leaving many injured.
San Gabriel’s Stance on Fireworks Safety
San Gabriel is not taking any chances. Fireworks are strictly banned in the city. Rather than hosting a traditional fireworks show, the city has scheduled a massive drone show for Thursday, offering a safer alternative for holiday celebrations.
