On the evening of July 3, 2025, a devastating fireworks explosion rocked a residential block in Pacoima, a neighborhood in Los Angeles. Shortly after 9 p.m., over 130 firefighters responded to what the LAFD officially declared a “major emergency” after fireworks stored in a detached garage detonated and ignited four nearby homes. Sparks rained throughout the neighborhood, forcing emergency crews to combat the blaze from a safe distance.
The explosion claimed the life of a man in his mid-30s and critically injured a 33‑year old woman, who was rushed to the hospital with severe burns. Four others, including a 68-year old woman, were treated on-site for smoke inhalation, and several pets were also hurt. Arson investigators, hazmat teams, and the LAPD bomb squad were deployed to determine if illegal fireworks were at fault and what triggered the catastrophe.
Why a Personal Injury Attorney from Singleton Schreiber Is Essential
Navigating the aftermath of a tragic fireworks disaster requires legal guidance. When a homeowner or seller negligently stores or uses illegal fireworks, they may be held responsible for catastrophic harm. A personal injury attorney’s role is to determine fault. Could the property owner have reasonably foreseen the danger? Were fireworks stored or used improperly? These questions are key to building a compelling negligence claim.
In cases where a life is lost, wrongful death statutes can apply. Family members can pursue damages for funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support, and emotional suffering. Similarly, the critically injured woman may be eligible for compensation covering current and future medical expenses, rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and lost earnings due to temporary or permanent disability.
An experienced injury lawyer will also assess punitive damages that is designed to punish egregious behavior and deter others from similar conduct. Especially in reckless handling of fireworks like this one, courts may look to send a strong societal message. Compensation isn’t just monetary; it’s justice and accountability.
“In a tragedy like the Pacoima fireworks explosion, a life was lost, others injured, homes were destroyed, and a community was impacted,” said managing partner, Gerald Singleton. “With years of experience handling negligent fire, complex injury and wrongful death cases, we know how critical it is to investigate all aspects of potential negligence, and to hold those responsible fully accountable.”
Contact Singleton Schreiber Today
If you or a loved one were harmed in the Pacoima fireworks explosion, or any incident involving unsafe or illegal fireworks, don’t face the legal and financial aftermath alone. Call Singleton Schreiber today for a free consultation.
