$600K In Illegal Fireworks Seized In Stafford County: Authorities

STAFFORD COUNTY, VA — Authorities seized $600,000 in illegal fireworks during a recent inspection in Stafford County, the fire marshal's office said.

In a report posted to Facebook, Stafford County Fire and Rescue officials said charges are pending for the two people involved with the illegal fireworks. Authorities did not provide any identifying information about the suspects.

The fire marshal's office said it was the biggest seizure in the department's history.

On Wednesday, investigators received a tip about possible illegal fireworks in the White Oak area of Stafford County. When the deputy fire marshal arrived at the scene on McCarty Road, he saw illegal fireworks in plain view, according to the fire department's report.

The business had an active fire prevention code permit, which allowed the deputy fire marshal to conduct an inspection.

"A subsequent inspection led to the seizure of a multitude of illegal fireworks with an estimated retail value of more than $600,000," authorities said.

The fire marshal's office is continuing to investigate the illegal fireworks. In a report, authorities urged residents to be cautious when purchasing fireworks before Independence day.

Read more: July 4th Fireworks 2023 Around Fredericksburg

"The Stafford County Fire Marshal’s Office reminds consumers looking to purchase fireworks this year to ensure they are purchasing legal fireworks from a vendor with a current permissible fireworks permit displayed,"authorities said.

Illegal fireworks include any fireworks that explode, rise into the air, fire projectiles, emit flames larger than five meters, or have a quick-match fuse. The fire department keeps a running list of legal fireworks on their website.