On Thursday, March 20, 2025, a home in Pacoima exploded due to illegal fireworks stored on the property. The blast caused significant structural damage to the home and led to an extensive evacuation of the surrounding neighborhood. Firefighters arrived on W. Remington Street shortly after 9 am to find the house partially collapsed from the explosion. Inside, a 24-year-old man suffered severe burns covering more than half of his body and was transported to the hospital in critical condition, his identity has not yet been released. Emergency crews also rescued four dogs from inside the residence. 

Authorities discovered highly unstable explosive materials, some of which could react violently to water. This led officials to conduct a controlled burn late Friday night. As a precaution, more than 60 nearby homes were evacuated. The evacuated homes spanned from Terra Bella Street to Pierce Street and between the 5 Freeway and Laurel Canyon Boulevard. Karen Bass, Los Angeles mayor, assured residents that crews were implementing precautions to prevent further damage. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) has launched a criminal investigation into the incident. 

Dangers of Illegal Fireworks and Home Explosions

Home explosions, particularly those involving illegal fireworks, pose extreme dangers to both the occupants and nearby residents. The risks include:

• Severe burns and traumatic injuries: explosions can cause life-threatening burns, fractures, and lacerations due to the intense heat and flying debris.
• Structural damage: the force of an explosion can collapse walls, shatter windows, and even cause serious damage to neighboring homes.
• Toxic exposure: chemical compounds used in illegal fireworks may release hazardous fumes, leading to respiratory issues and other long-term health complications. 
• Fires and secondary explosions: unstable chemicals can ignite and trigger subsequent blasts, worsening the destruction and increasing the risk to first responders and residents. 

The aftermath of a home explosion can affect victims physically, mentally, and financially. “Incidents like this remind us of the catastrophic consequences of storing volatile materials in residential areas,” says attorney Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber. “Beyond the immediate devastation, victims and their families face a long road to recovery, dealing with medical bills, displacement, and emotional trauma. Our firm stands ready to support those affected and help them seek justice.”

Legal Recourse for Victims

Victims of the Pacoima explosion may have legal options to recover damages for property loss. The powerful blast damaged multiple homes in the surrounding neighborhood, leaving many residents displaced and facing significant repair costs. Homeowners and renters affected by the explosion may be able to seek compensation for:

• Structural damage – repairs or rebuilding costs for homes that suffered blast-related damage
• Personal property loss – compensation for furniture, appliances, clothing, and other belongings destroyed in the explosion
• Temporary housing expenses – the cost of hotel stays or rental accommodations while waiting for home repairs
• Diminished property value – losses due to decreased home values resulting from explosion-related damage 

Depending on the ATF investigation findings, property owners may have legal claims against those responsible for manufacturing and storing the illegal fireworks. 

If you were affected by the home explosion and illegal fireworks, contact Singleton Schreiber to learn more about your options. Call us at (619) 771-3473 or email us at info@singletonschreiber.com to schedule a free consultation with our personal injury attorneys. 

On Wednesday, March 12, an explosion occurred at a retirement community in Denver, Colorado. The Denver Fire Department responded to reports of a structure fire around 11:30 am near Quebec Street and Smith Way. Initial reports indicated that a transformer was on fire, and there were no immediate concerns about additional hazards. However, shortly after 12 pm, authorities reported an explosion occurred inside the retirement community building, resulting in injuries to several individuals. 

Emergency responders evaluated ten people at the scene, with eight requiring hospitalization for further medical attention. Two individuals were assessed and cleared without needing transport. The extent of the injuries those eight individuals sustained has not been released. 

Dangers Faced by Victims of Explosions

Explosions and fires in retirement home facilities pose severe risks to both residents and staff. Elderly individuals may have mobility challenges or medical conditions, and may struggle to evacuate safely and in a timely manner. This may put them at risk of sustaining life-threatening injuries such as smoke inhalation, burns, and blunt force trauma from structural damage. Additionally, experiencing an explosion can cause psychological trauma, particularly for elderly individuals.

“Incidents like this are deeply concerning, especially when they occur in a place meant to provide care and safety for vulnerable individuals,” says Kevin Hannon, personal injury attorney at Singleton Schreiber, “Victims and their families deserve answers and legal recourse if this tragedy was preventable. Our firm is committed to helping those affected navigate the legal process and seek the compensation they deserve.” 

Legal Recourse for Those Affected 

Victims of explosions in residential care facilities may have legal options to pursue compensation for their injuries and losses. Those affected may consider filing personal injury claims against the responsible parties. Potentially liable parties may include:

• The retirement community’s owners and operators, if negligent safety protocols contributed to the incident
• Utility companies, if a faulty transformer or electrical issue contributed to the explosion
• Equipment manufacturers, if defective products played a role in the incident
• Maintenance contractors responsible for electrical and structural upkeep

Determining liability will require a thorough investigation. 

Potential damages that may be pursued include:

• Medical expenses for hospitalizations, surgeries, and ongoing care
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Pain and suffering, including emotional trauma
• Property damage or loss for personal belongings 
• Costs related to relocation or temporary housing
• Wrongful death claims for families of individuals who may succumb to injuries from the incident

If you or a loved one have been impacted by this incident or a similar one, contact Singleton Schreiber today to learn how we may be able to help you. Call us at (720) 400-7443 or email us at info@singletonschreiber.com today to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our personal injury attorneys.