Cal Fire seizes nearly 50,000 pounds of illegal fireworks, one of the largest busts in state history

With less than a month away from the Fourth of July holiday, Cal Fire announced one of the largest illegal fireworks seizure in state history.

After a months long investigation, Cal Fire officers arrested seven people and seized more than 49,000 pounds of fireworks over the past two weeks. Investigators found the suspects had been illegally importing, transporting, storing, distributing and selling illegal fireworks for more than 30 years.

The fireworks were stored at locations in Copperopolis, Modesto, Salida, Hayward, Walnut Creek and Oakland.

Officers also seized more than $115,000 along with a variety of computers, cell phones, firearms, and personal items.

“In California, we have a zero tolerance for the use and sale of illegal fireworks,” said Chief Ken Pimlott, director of CAL FIRE. “With the increase in large, devastating fires across the state, we cannot stand by and allow this type of activity to occur, threatening not only property and natural resources, but the lives of the citizens we protect.”

Cal Fire said on average each year, fireworks in California start 18,500 fires, including 1,300 structure fires, and 300 vehicle fires. Fire officials said on average the fires cause three deaths, 40 civilian injuries, and $43 million in direct property damage.