Authorities in the Inland Empire seized 10,000 pounds of illegal aerial fireworks that were concealed inside a shipping container in the city of Phelan.
During a traffic stop on June 27, San Bernardino PD officers discovered a “significant quantity” of illegal fireworks and $5,400 in cash inside the vehicle, according to police.
Upon their findings, the officers searched the suspect’s residence in Phelan, where they discovered a 25-foot shipping container packed with thousands of pounds of illegal fireworks.
A Draco AK-47-style assault weapon was also recovered from inside the home, police said.
The suspect was arrested with multiple charges related to the possession and sale of illegal fireworks, according to the San Bernardino PD.
Authorities assisted with the safe removal of the explosives.
The seizure happened just days before 4th of July pyrotechnics are set to light up the skies across Southern California.
“As Independence Day approaches, the San Bernardino Police Department reminds the community that illegal fireworks are not only dangerous but pose a significant public safety hazard,” wrote the San Bernardino PD.