Fireworks Explosions Across California: Who’s Liable If You or a Neighbor Gets Hurt?

Over the July 4th weekend, a series of fireworks-related tragedies rocked communities across California. As the smoke clears, victims and families are left with urgent questions: Who’s responsible? What are your legal rights if you’re hurt, or if your property is damaged by someone else’s illegal fireworks? 

Here we break down the key legal issues and what victims should know if they’ve been affected by a fireworks explosion. 

What Happened in the Recent California Fireworks Explosions?

• Simi Valley: A man died after fireworks stored in his garage exploded, setting the home ablaze. 

• Pacoima: A fireworks explosion destroyed one home and damaged several others. One man died and a woman was critically injured. 

• Buena Park: An 8-year-old girl was killed during a backyard fireworks display when a device misfired. 

• Antioch: A man lost fingers and others were injured in an alleyway blast involving commercial-grade fireworks. 

All incidents are under investigation, and authorities believe illegal fireworks played a role in each case. 

“When fireworks go off and someone gets hurt, people often assume it’s just a tragic accident,” says Parham Nikfarjam, a Senior Trial Attorney at J&Y Law. “But in the eyes of the law, it’s about responsibility. I’ve seen too many cases where dangerous explosives were stored or used illegally, and lives were changed forever. Whether it’s the person lighting them, the homeowner who allowed it, or the supplier who sold them, someone can and should be held accountable.” 

Are Fireworks Legal in California?

In most parts of California, aerial and explosive fireworks are illegal, even on July 4th. Only “Safe and Sane” fireworks are allowed in certain cities. Even then, strict local ordinances apply. Most of the fireworks involved in recent incidents were either illegally imported, modified, or stored in violation of state law. 

Who Can Be Held Legally Liable for Fireworks Injuries or Deaths?

Several parties may face civil and criminal consequences, depending on the facts: 

• The person who ignited or stored the fireworks
  If someone stored illegal fireworks or launched them negligently, they can be held fully liable for resulting injuries, deaths, or property damage. 

• The homeowner or property owner
  Even if they didn’t light the fireworks, property owners may be liable if they allowed illegal activity to occur on their premises. 

• Fireworks distributors or suppliers
  If fireworks were sold illegally, or without proper warnings, vendors may be sued under product liability or negligence laws. 

Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Fireworks-Related Damage?

Not always. Most homeowner’s insurance policies exclude coverage for illegal activity, including unlawful fireworks use. That means: 

• If a homeowner was hosting an illegal display, their insurer might deny coverage entirely. 

• Injured guests or neighbors may need to pursue the individual personally for damages. 

• Some policies may provide coverage for unintentional property damage, but not for injuries resulting from contraband or recklessness. 

What Compensation Can Victims or Families Recover?

Victims of fireworks explosions may be entitled to compensation for: 

• Medical expenses and ongoing care 

• Funeral and burial costs (in wrongful death cases) 

• Lost income or earning potential 

• Pain and suffering 

• Property damage 

• Punitive damages, if the conduct was especially reckless or illegal 

Families of deceased victims, like the one in Buena Park, may also file a wrongful death claim against the individual responsible. In some cases, claims can be filed against the property owner who allowed the event to occur. 

“If you or someone you love was hurt by fireworks, you have every right to speak up,” explains Nikfarjam. “Don’t let fear, guilt, or pressure from a neighbor stop you. This is about making sure you’re not left to carry the physical and financial burden alone. We’ve been here before. It’s hard, but it will be okay. That what I tell all my clients.” 

What Should You Do If You’ve Been Injured by Fireworks?

1. Get medical help immediately, even if injuries seem minor. 

1. Call law enforcement and fire investigators to file a formal report. 

1. Collect evidence: take photos or videos, preserve fireworks remnants, get witness statements. 

1. Report damage to your insurance company, but do not assume coverage will apply. 

1. Speak to a personal injury attorney to understand your rights and begin gathering the evidence needed to file a claim. 

How Can These Tragedies Be Prevented?

Each of the July 4th explosions could have been avoided with basic legal compliance: 

• Do not store or use illegal fireworks in residential areas. 

• Attend professionally sanctioned fireworks shows, such as those hosted by city parks and recreation departments. 

• Report suspected fireworks stockpiling or unsafe displays to local authorities before tragedy strikes. 

If you or someone you know was injured or killed in a fireworks-related explosion, or if your home was damaged by a neighbor’s reckless conduct, you have legal rights. 

Call J&Y Law at (424) 453-2310 for a free case evaluation. We’ll help you determine who’s liable, whether insurance applies, and how to pursue full compensation for your injuries or loss.