The Yolo County Board of Supervisors declared a local emergency after the Oakdale Fire in Esparto last Tuesday. The fire started at a fireworks storage facility, caused major damage, and resulted in seven deaths. The emergency declaration allows the county to request state and federal aid and reimbursement for emergency response costs. The Yolo County Office of Emergency Services continues to assist in the response, working with CAL FIRE, the Esparto Fire Protection District, and the Sheriff/Coroner’s Office, according to the Yolo County.
The Yolo County Coroner’s Division is working to identify the victims. The investigation involves CAL FIRE’s Arson and Bomb Investigation Unit, regional bomb squads, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives National Response Team. Progress has been delayed due to explosive materials remaining at the scene.
Yolo County is offering support through its Mental Health Crisis Line and Sheriff’s Dispatch following the Oakdale Fire. Emergency crews and PG&E are working on restoring utilities. District 5 Supervisor Angel Barajas said, “We extend our deepest concern to those impacted and our thoughts remain especially with the families of the seven individuals still unaccounted for,” as mentioned by Hoodline. Residents can visit the Yolo County Office of Emergency Services website or contact the sheriff’s dispatch for information. The county will provide regular updates during the recovery process.
