The state fire marshal’s office has become the lead agency in the  investigation of Simi Valley’s Fourth of July fireworks mishap that injured at  least 37 people, it was announced today.

The decision was made after fire marshal investigators met Monday with  representatives of the Ventura County Fire Department, which has been handling  the investigation and asked the state to take over, the department said in a  news release.

37 people were injured at Rancho Santa Susana Community Park in Simi  Valley on Thursday night when fireworks accidentally shot into a crowd of 8,000  to 10,000 spectators.

In Ojai, a 32-year-old pyrotechnics employee suffered serious injuries to his  face, left arm and left leg after being struck by fireworks that exploded on the  ground at Nordhoff High School

The causes of the mishaps have not been determined, officials said, although  operators of both shows have indicated defective fireworks shells may be to  blame.

About the Author

Attorney Steven Peck has been practicing law since 1981. A former successful business owner, Mr. Peck initially focused his legal career on business law. Within the first three years, after some colleagues and friend’s parents endured nursing home neglect and elder abuse, he continued his education to begin practicing elder law and nursing home abuse law.