3 Arrested in Deadly Esparto Fireworks Explosion

Owners of property and fireworks company face charges after deadly blast killed 7 and sparked 78-acre fire.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 12:55am

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An extreme close-up of a charred, twisted metal object from the fireworks explosion site, capturing the gritty, investigative nature of the incident through dramatic lighting and stark contrast.The aftermath of a deadly fireworks explosion in Esparto exposes the need for greater oversight of high-risk activities in local communities.Yolo Today

Three people connected to the deadly fireworks explosion in Esparto, California have been arrested, according to Yolo County Sheriff's jail records. The explosion in July 2025 killed seven people and sparked a 78-acre fire. The arrestees include the property owners Sam and Tammy Machado, who were both employed by the Yolo County Sheriff's Office, as well as the owner of the fireworks company that operated at the site, Craig Cutright.

Why it matters

The arrests come after a Yolo County Grand Jury report found that multiple officials, including sheriff's deputies and fire officials, were aware of the dangerous fireworks operation but failed to shut it down, leading to the tragic explosion. The case has raised concerns about oversight and accountability around high-risk activities in the community.

The details

Sam Machado, a former Yolo County Sheriff's deputy, and his wife Tammy Machado, an administrative employee of the sheriff's office, were both taken into custody. Sam Machado is being held without bail, while Tammy Machado posted bond and was released. Craig Cutright, the owner of the fireworks company, was also arrested in Yolo County. The Yolo County District Attorney is expected to announce indictments related to the deadly explosion at a press conference tomorrow.

  • The deadly fireworks explosion occurred on July 1, 2025.
  • The three arrests were made recently, according to Yolo County jail records.

The players

Sam Machado

A former Yolo County Sheriff's deputy whose property was the site of the deadly fireworks explosion.

Tammy Machado

The wife of Sam Machado, an administrative employee of the Yolo County Sheriff's Office.

Craig Cutright

The owner of the fireworks company that operated at the site of the deadly explosion.

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What’s next

The Yolo County District Attorney will announce indictments tied to the deadly explosion at a press conference tomorrow.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger oversight and accountability around high-risk activities in local communities, as well as the potential consequences when officials fail to take action to address known safety issues.