Sat Mar 22 06:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Pacoima Home Explosion Prompts Widespread Evacuation, Controlled Burn
**LOS ANGELES (CNS)** — A large explosion at a Pacoima home Thursday, which left a young man critically injured, has resulted in a widespread evacuation and a planned controlled burn of the property. Officials discovered evidence of illegal fireworks manufacturing at the residence, located near the intersection of Remington Street and the Golden State (5) Freeway.
The explosion, described by officials as akin to a bomb, injured a 24-year-old man with first-degree burns over 50% of his body. Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell and Mayor Karen Bass visited the scene Friday, where they explained the decision to conduct a controlled burn. Chief McDonnell stated that the presence of unstable chemicals, discovered by the bomb squad, would react explosively with water, making any other approach too dangerous.
“All other options have been examined,” Mayor Bass emphasized, highlighting the risk posed by transporting the hazardous materials. The controlled burn was deemed the safest option to neutralize the remaining chemicals.
A large-scale evacuation was ordered Friday for the area bounded by Laurel Canyon Boulevard, Terra Bella Street, the Golden State Freeway, and Pierce Street. An evacuation shelter was opened at the Ritchie Valens Recreation Center. The number of evacuees remains unknown.
Chief McDonnell confirmed the discovery of chemical powders, containers, and other materials consistent with illegal pyrotechnics manufacturing. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is leading the criminal investigation. Authorities are urging the public to stay away from the area until the situation is resolved, warning that interference will result in arrest. The incident initially prompted the evacuation of over two dozen homes; four dogs were safely recovered from the property.
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