The Biggest fireworks bust in California history was the seizure of 75 tons of illicit fireworks

Authorities in Gardena are referring to the seizure of illegal fireworks as the greatest of its kind in California history, with about 75 tons, or 150,000 pounds, having been found.

In cooperation with the Gardena Police Department, the CAL FIRE – Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) Arson and Bomb Unit conducted the fireworks bust on Saturday morning at a business warehouse on Vermont Avenue close to 170th Street.

The operation resulted in the arrest of three persons. In the end, whether or not charges are brought will be determined by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office.

A man named Alejandro Rodriguez, 44, from Wilmington, a woman named Natalie Navarro, 30, from Carson, and a man named Daniel Gudino, 25, from Wilmington were identified as the suspects who were detained.

Authorities stated during a news conference on Wednesday that the sizable cache of fireworks, which they think were imported from China, is the biggest firework seizure in the state. The second-largest was in 2021, when 32 tons were taken into custody in Los Angeles.

In addition to the fireworks, authorities claim to have discovered 10 pounds of bulk handmade explosives and 2,000 illicit harmful devices. The street value of the fireworks is projected to be between $7 and $10 million.

In the lead-up to the Fourth of July holiday, L.A. County officials are emphasizing the value of fireworks safety as well as the risks associated with using illicit fireworks. (News Source)

According to the authorities, everyone who is connected with illegal fireworks faces the possibility of being sentenced to jail time and a fine of up to fifty thousand dollars.