South Beach fireworks suspects arrested and charged with multiple felonies

The Del Norte Sheriff's Office has made two arrests following an ongoing investigation related to the explosion that occurred July 4th evening on South Beach.

On July 11th morning a team of Del Norte County Sheriff’s deputies, District Attorney Investigators and Cal Fire Law Enforcement served a search warrant at a Crescent City residence following the tragic fireworks incident on South Beach.

Evidence was discovered during the search that strongly supports the multiple felony charges both suspects face.

Megan Warner, 32 and Levi Mills, 33 were both arrested at detained in the Del Norte County Jail.

Warner and Mills face the following charges when arraigned, Monday, July 15: Possession of illegal explosives, Selling/ETC dangerous fireworks, Willful Cruelty to a child, Sell/ Use Unclassed fireworks, Possession of fireworks without permit, Discharge/ ETC fireworks: likely to injure, Obstruction/ Resists Public Officer ( Amended)

Both suspects are a bail-eligible at $50,000 each.

Sheriff Garrett Scott issued the following statement: “Transparency is and remains a priority at the Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office. I’ve remained somewhat silent on this matter in order to protect the integrity of this investigation and to avoid protection of any destruction of evidence that could take place. I pray our three year-old victim (William Lupan) as well as all the victims can heal from this tragedy. The negligence shown by the suspects is this case is completely unacceptable. I commend Dispatch, EMS, Fire Personnel and Law Enforcement Officers who responded to this incident and I truly thank the many people who have reached out to support our Staff and Law Enforcement for their efforts. Public support is so important.”

A total of 14 victims were located and transported to Sutter Coast Hospital. Many others were injured and declined hospital medical services but were assisted by emergency medical personnel on scene with burns, cuts and fragments of debris from the blast. The arrested suspects fled South Beach after the illegal fireworks fled the scene.

Family Member SuZanna Kathleen Church expressed the deep appreciation and love from the Lupan family. Baby Billy remains in critical condition in Portland. The Family thanks all who have and contribute to the Gofund.me page entitled Urgent Funds needed for Toddler.