CHINO, California—At least one person was killed and three others were injured after a large quantity of fireworks exploded during a Fourth of July gathering in Southern California, authorities said, prompting an involuntary manslaughter arrest as investigators examined the cause of the blast.
The explosion occurred at about 8:30 p.m. Saturday in the 5600 block of D Street in Chino, east of Los Angeles. Police responding to reports of a vehicle fire found multiple people suffering serious injuries after what investigators believe was the ignition of a large cache of fireworks, according to the Chino Police Department.
A woman died from her injuries, while two other adults were hospitalized with serious injuries but are expected to survive, authorities said. A child was also taken to a hospital for evaluation and was later released. Officials have not publicly identified the woman pending notification of her family.
Police said the explosion engulfed at least one vehicle in flames and sent emergency responders to the residential neighborhood. Officers provided first aid before paramedics transported the injured to local hospitals. Investigators said preliminary evidence indicates that a substantial quantity of fireworks ignited, although the exact sequence of events remains under investigation.
Authorities arrested Derion Tradon James Jr., 28, of Hesperia on suspicion of involuntary manslaughter. Police did not immediately provide additional details on the circumstances leading to the arrest or say whether further charges could follow as the investigation continues.
Witnesses reported that a large group had gathered to celebrate Independence Day when the explosion occurred. Video from the scene showed a vehicle consumed by fire as people fled the area, though investigators have not released an official account confirming the precise origin of the blast beyond the preliminary findings involving fireworks.
The Chino incident was among several fireworks-related emergencies reported across Southern California during the Independence Day holiday weekend. Fire departments throughout the region responded to multiple fires and injuries linked to fireworks use, renewing warnings from public safety officials about the dangers of illegal or improperly handled pyrotechnics.
The Chino Police Department said detectives continue to investigate the explosion and are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact investigators. Officials have not announced when additional findings or potential charges may be released.
