Thousands of pounds of illegal fireworks were discovered inside a private residence in San Bernardino, leading to evacuations for dozens of residents in the neighborhood, according to officials.
The San Bernardino Police Department said when officers responded to a complaint made about residents at 1441 West Evans St., they discovered stacks and stacks of illegal fireworks in plain sight. A preliminary investigation showed there were 4,000 to 5,000 pounds of illegal fireworks inside the home.
Because of the sheer amount of explosive material, a bomb squad was dispatched from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department to assist with the investigation. Law enforcement officers said about 48 homes were evacuated.
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Officers also discovered homemade fireworks as well as several kegs of black powder, which can be used to manufacture fireworks at the residence.
"I'm glad they got caught in time because we all have our families here," Iliana Morales, a neighbor, said. "It’s very concerning because there are also children in that home, too."
The home was occupied by a family, an official told NBCLA. At least one man was arrested during the investigation.
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