Following the deadly July 1 fireworks explosion in Esparto that killed seven people and devastated nearby farmland, Singleton Schreiber LLP partner Andrew Bluth announced the firm’s first civil lawsuit on behalf of Etta James Farming LLC. The suit, filed in Yolo County, names Devastating Pyrotechnics, BlackStar Fireworks, and property owner Sam Machado—a Yolo County sheriff’s lieutenant—as defendants. It alleges negligence and recklessness, claiming illegal and unpermitted commercial-grade fireworks operations caused widespread destruction. Bluth emphasized the impact on local farmers who “invest years and incredible resources” into their crops and noted that Machado financially benefited from the illegal activities. The suit also highlights the lack of warning to neighbors about explosive storage and questions potential county involvement. Both Machado and his wife, a sheriff’s office employee, were placed on administrative leave. As investigations continue, families of the victims are mourning, with funeral services already held or scheduled for several of the deceased
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