2 in critical condition after fireworks explosion inside Hayward home, police say
Investigators say preliminary findings suggest suspected manufacturing of illegal fireworks or explosives at the residence.
HAYWARD, Calif. (KGO) -- Two people were injured from an apparent fireworks explosion at a home in Hayward on Thursday, police said.
Authorities say a house fire was first reported at 12:18 p.m. near the 27000 block of Mandarin Avenue.
When officers arrived on scene, they say they located a man suffering from injuries consistent with a fireworks-related explosion.
A second explosion reportedly occurred while officers were responding, leading to the evacuation of the home and nearby areas. The public was asked to avoid the area.
Authorities say several people were evacuated and two were transported to nearby hospitals. Both of those individuals are said to be in critical condition.
Firefighters quickly contained the fire said to be in the garage and were able to prevent it from spreading to the rest of the house of nearby properties.
Footage from SKY7 shows debris and what appears to be the damaged home.
Investigators say preliminary findings suggest that there was suspected manufacturing of illegal fireworks or explosives at the residence. The origin of the fireworks and cause for the explosions is still being investigated by firefighters and law enforcement.
"Since 2024, illegal fireworks have caused over $35 million worth of property damage. We've responded to more than 1,200 fires across the state with local fire agencies, and they've caused countless injuries," said State Fire Marshal Daniel Berlant, noting they're committed to cracking down on people using and manufacturing illegal fireworks. "The use of dangerous and illegal fireworks is a true problem that poses a threat to California, which is why we're so focused on the enforcement of illegal fireworks."
Due to the potential hazards posed by remaining explosive materials inside the home, the Alameda County Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit was called to assist with the safe removal of any devices.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Hayward Police Department at 510-293-7000.
The Hayward Police Department case number is 2025-0037761.
