DNA Testing Underway to Identify Victims of Deadly Esparto Fireworks Explosion

Yolo County officials have begun rapid DNA testing to identify the seven victims of the deadly fireworks warehouse explosion in Esparto, California. The July 1 blast destroyed a storage facility owned by Devastating Pyrotechnics and left a devastated community seeking answers.

At a Monday morning press conference, Yolo County Undersheriff Coroner Matt Davis said the DNA testing results are expected within 48 hours. Authorities currently believe there are no additional victims, but search efforts will continue to confirm this.

The explosion site, located near County Roads 23 and 86A, remains dangerous, with fire crews conducting controlled burns and safely disposing of undetonated explosives. Aerial footage showed workers placing explosive material in trenches and setting it ablaze. Fire officials confirmed ongoing hazards and emphasized continued burn-off operations.

The investigation into the cause of the explosion is led by the California State Fire Marshal’s office. Officials are assessing whether proper permits and licenses were in place, but the facility was reportedly not zoned to store fireworks, raising further questions. Both Devastating Pyrotechnics and another company listed at the address, BlackStar Fireworks, are connected to Craig Cutright, a volunteer firefighter for the Esparto Fire Protection District. Cutright is currently on a leave of absence.

Adding another layer to the investigation, the property where the explosion occurred is owned by Sam Machado, a lieutenant with the Yolo County Sheriff’s Office. Officials declined to comment on personnel matters related to either individual.

Meanwhile, two families impacted by the blast are now being represented by a Los Angeles-based law firm, which is exploring potential civil claims, including negligence and wrongful death.

Among the victims identified by family and friends are brothers Jesus, Jhony, and Joel Ramos; Carlos Javier Rodriguez; Neil Li; and Angel Voller. The seventh victim has yet to be publicly identified. Many of the victims were young workers, some of them fathers, and one—18-year-old Jesus Ramos—was reportedly on his first day at the job.

Family members have gathered at the roadblock near the site, setting up a memorial and waiting for answers. Investigations remain ongoing, and the road to justice and closure may take time.

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