Officials provide update on Esparto fireworks facility explosion

(FOX40.COM) — On Thursday afternoon, officials provided an update on the Esparto fireworks facility explosion, where seven people remain unaccounted for.

Officials took no questions today, in contrast to the sharp questioning they received at Wednesday’s press conference from loved ones of those still missing.

Esparto Fire Chief Curtis Lawrence was the first to speak after being introduced by a county spokesperson and said crews “engaged in targeted fire suppression” late Wednesday afternoon, which will eventually allow them to begin recovery efforts.

Yolo County Undersheriff Matthew Davis offered condolences to the families whose loved ones remain unaccounted for following the fire and commended the response of law enforcement and fire crews

“(They) responded quickly, urgently and professionally,” Davis said. “They did so in a manner the community should be proud of and we’re thankful for their efforts.”

Yolo County Board of Supervisors member Angel Barajas also opened by offering thoughts and prayers to the families and community. Barajas then detailed some of the resources, including hotel vouchers and access to mental health counselors.

“First and foremost, our priority is the families,” Barajas said. “Making sure that they are comfortable during this investigation and recovery.”

The facility near Country Road 23 and Country Road 86A in Esparto caught fire around 6 p.m. on Tuesday.

The fire created a number of spot fires in the area, collectively referred to by Cal Fire as the Oakdale Fire, and burned roughly 78 acres.