Santa Ana Men Plead Guilty to Illegal Fireworks Explosion Injuring Six Children

In a case that has shocked the community, two men from Santa Ana have pleaded guilty to charges related to an illegal fireworks explosion that injured six children. Frank Lazcano Lopez and Michael Andrew Hunter admitted to their roles in the 2021 Fourth of July incident that took place in Garden Grove.

Explosion Rocks Garden Grove

The explosion occurred at approximately 9:30 p.m. on July 4, 2021, in the 13800 block of Rosita Place. The blast shattered the windows of a nearby apartment complex and a vehicle. According to the Garden Grove Police Department, an 8-year-old boy suffered serious eye injuries and burns, while five other children were also hurt.

Guilty Pleas and Sentencing

Lopez, 49, pleaded guilty to felony charges including the use of a destructive device causing bodily injury, dissuading a witness by force, and malicious damage to personal property. As part of his plea deal, prosecutors dropped the more severe charge of causing mayhem or great bodily injury. Lopez’s sentence amounted to 664 days in jail, effectively equating to time already served during his trial.

Hunter, who faced similar charges, also struck a plea deal that led to the dismissal of several counts. His sentence was notably lighter—merely three days in jail, which he had already completed, and an additional 20 days of Caltrans work due by June next year.

A History of Legal Troubles

This is not Lopez’s first brush with the law. Past records reveal that he had previously served a five-year sentence for a fatal drunken driving incident in Orange County. Hunter has been on the law enforcement radar since 2002, having registered as a sex offender following previous convictions.

Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Fireworks

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department has seen a spike in illegal fireworks activities, especially around Fourth of July celebrations. Chief Eric D. Smith condemned these actions publicly, stating that law enforcement is committed to protecting citizens even at risk to our own lives.

The rise in illegal pyrotechnics has led to severe injuries annually. In June alone, authorities confiscated over 5,800 pounds of banned fireworks. Every year, we see severe injuries and property damage in Orange County because of illegal fireworks, said a local law enforcement officer.