Loophole allowed owner of warehouse in NorCal explosion to obtain explosives license, report says

A catastrophic explosion at a fireworks warehouse in Yolo County on July 1 resulted in the deaths of seven workers. Investigations indicate that the owner of Devastating Pyrotechnics used a loophole in California law to acquire explosives permits despite having a felony conviction. This conviction should have barred him from receiving federal licenses from the U. S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

However, California regulations only prohibit permits for felonies involving explosives, fireworks, or arson. In addition, the property was not compliant with local zoning laws, as it was designated solely for agricultural use. The Sacramento Bee reported that shipping and import records show the company imported significant quantities of raw chemicals used in explosive manufacturing. These alarming details underscore the urgent need for regulatory reform to prevent similar tragedies. Local authorities are now under pressure to reassess safety regulations governing explosives and warehouse operations.