Pasadena Police Seize 10,000 Pounds of Illegal Fireworks in Gang-Linked Operation

Authorities in Pasadena seized approximately 10,000 pounds of illegal fireworks, including improvised explosive devices, after executing a search warrant at a property linked to a suspected gang-run fireworks operation in Los Angeles County, police announced Tuesday.

The warrant was served Friday at 6316 Whittier Blvd. by the Pasadena Police Department’s Street Crime Unit and the Pasadena Fire Department’s Arson Investigation Team, city officials said.

Investigators discovered illegal explosive fireworks stored at the location, intended for distribution in Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley cities, officials stated. The cache also included a large amount of marijuana products, an unregistered firearm with high-capacity magazines, and documents indicating sales of illegal fireworks.

Four individuals were arrested in connection with the investigation, and additional arrests may follow, according to Pasadena officials at a Tuesday news conference.

Officials believe this is the largest fireworks seizure ever in the Pasadena area. Photos released by authorities show the seized fireworks, along with the gun and magazines.

Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo emphasized the operation removed a significant threat, especially in communities vulnerable to wildfires. “This was a very coordinated effort,” Gordo said.

“It removed lots of fireworks that could be harmful to not just individuals but communities given the experiences we’ve had in the past with fires.”

The investigation is ongoing and is believed to be tied to a criminal street gang enterprise that smuggles fireworks from Nevada, officials said.