In the heart of Pacoima, a neighborhood grappling with persistent fireworks dangers, residents have been sounding an urgent alarm about the life-threatening risks posed by illegal pyrotechnics. A comprehensive CBS News California Investigation has revealed a startling pattern of repeated safety violations and limited law enforcement response that has put entire communities at risk.

The investigation uncovered devastating consequences, including a tragic July incident where six homes were burned and one person lost their life due to an explosive fireworks-related fire. Neighbors like Gabriel Soza have long reported dangerous activity, repeatedly calling local authorities about a garage known for selling illegal fireworks, only to be met with apparent indifference.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) data paints a sobering picture: between 2020 and 2025, the city experienced 722 fireworks-related fires and nearly 3,500 emergency calls. Despite this overwhelming evidence of danger, the LAPD issued citations or made arrests only 12 times during this five-year period - a statistic that underscores the systemic challenges in addressing this public safety issue.

LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell candidly acknowledged the department's long-standing struggle with fireworks responses. 'You get fireworks calls all the time,' he explained, noting that many calls are not even dispatched due to their sheer volume. The Los Angeles Fire Department's data further substantiates these concerns, documenting 226 fires caused by illegal fireworks in 2025 alone.

The problem has escalated to the point where law enforcement officers themselves are becoming targets. Body camera footage revealed alarming instances of fireworks being launched directly at LAPD officers during public demonstrations, resulting in multiple injuries. Chief McDonnell reported that 26 officers were incapacitated due to fireworks-related incidents, ranging from ear to eye injuries.

In contrast, the Riverside Police Department has implemented an innovative solution: a drone program designed to spot and document illegal fireworks activities. In their first year, they issued 65 citations - significantly more than the LAPD's total over five years. Officer Victor Schmitz proudly noted that their approach is 'safer for everybody,' offering a potential model for urban fire prevention.

Local residents like Luis Medrano, who claims to have called authorities 30 times about dangerous fireworks, express profound frustration. 'They didn't care,' he stated, highlighting the urgent need for more proactive community safety measures. The investigation reveals a critical gap between repeated community warnings and meaningful law enforcement intervention.

As Los Angeles continues to grapple with this complex challenge, the CBS News investigation serves not just as a critique, but as a constructive call to action. By highlighting these systemic issues, the report offers an opportunity for collaborative solutions that can protect lives, property, and community well-being.