While under the coordinated efforts of North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD), Washoe County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO), and Incline Village General Improvement District (IVGID), a little over 95% of the 1,270 fireworks intended for the July 4th Fireworks event are believed to have been successfully recovered. The current inventory is identified in the table below.
Recovery Breakdown by Shell Size as of 07/07/2025
| Shell Size | Total | Recovered (Dry + Wet) | Missing |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3″ | 700 | 688 | 12 |
| 4″ | 400 | 374 | 26 |
| 5″ | 96 | 83 | 13 |
| 6″ | 64 | 64 | 0 |
| 8″ | 6 | 2 | 4 |
| 12″ | 4 | 0 | 4 |
| Total | 1,270 | 1,211 | 59 |
Much of the recovered fireworks was transported out of Incline Village on July 4th, in full compliance with strict DOT regulations. Fireworks recovered after July 4th have been released to the WCSO Bomb Squad for safe disposal.
Less than 60 shells remain unaccounted for. Video footage from the Washoe County Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) team suggests that many of these are submerged near the barge location. The recovery of the submerged barge and fireworks is ongoing. This area remains off-limits to anyone other than authorized recovery team members.
Important Notice: ATF Involvement
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is involved in the investigation. The ATF investigates such incidents due to public safety concerns surrounding the possible misuse of explosives. The ATF may offer rewards for information that leads to the arrest of persons responsible for thefts and possession of these explosives. Violation of these laws may subject the offender to felony criminal prosecution.
Community Assistance Requested
Incline Fireworks is asking community members to help in the recovery efforts. If you come across any fireworks or debris related to the July 4th incident, please:
- Do not touch what appears to be fireworks or the tubes.
- Take a photo of the item.
- Note the exact location.
- Call the recovery hotline at (775) 241-8572.
- In case of an emergency, call 911.
Incline Fireworks is grateful for the support of the community. Thanks to the dedicated work of IVGID Parks, Beach and Public Works teams, the Eco-Clean Solutions BEBOT, and the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe, Incline Beach and Ski Beach have been restored to full operations. Hermit Beach remains closed until further notice. Kayak storage access is available via the Incline Creek bridge connecting Ski Beach and Hermit Beach.
Further Updates
Incline Fireworks will continue to provide updates as additional information becomes available.
We appreciate the continued patience and support of the community as we work to address this situation with diligence and transparency.
Contact Information
Incline Fireworks, Inc.
Email: info@inclinefireworks.com
Recovery Hotline: (775) 241-8572
