Esparto fireworks victims’ deaths were ‘immediate,’ Yolo County coroner says
Yolo County’s coroner said Tuesday that all seven victims killed in the July 1 fireworks facility explosion in Esparto died instantly from “multiple blast and thermal injuries.”
The explosion, which occurred on a compound home to two fireworks companies and a gun dealer, sparked the 78-acre Oakdale Fire and prompted the county to declare a local health emergency. The coroner determined the men’s deaths were “immediate.”
The victims — fathers, brothers and sons — were working at the compound when the fire ignited through an apparent series of explosions. The coroner listed their deaths as “accidental.” The victims are:
Jesus Ramos, 18, of San Pablo, who was a talented athlete, gifted artist and recent high school graduate on his first day of work at the site. He leaves behind his parents, siblings and pregnant girlfriend, Syanna Ruiz.
Jhony Ramos, 22, of San Pablo, who was Jesús’ older brother, remembered as a kindhearted leader who planned to follow his father and brother into the trades.
Joel “Junior” Melendez, 28, of Sacramento, who supported his wife and infant son through landscaping work and barber training. A second child was on the way.
Carlos Rodriguez-Mora, 43, of San Andreas, who was a husband and father described by his wife as devoted to his children and family.
Angel Mathew Voller, 18, of Stockton, who was a standout high school baseball pitcher named Central California Athletic Alliance Pitcher of the Year.
Christopher Bocog, 45, of San Francisco, who was known in the rap world as “Oopz” and was a longtime fireworks professional celebrated for his artistry and dedication to family.
Neil Li, 41, of San Francisco, who was the general manager of Devastating Pyrotechnics with more than 20 years in the industry.
Investigations into the explosion remain ongoing, due in part to a web of oversight agencies and the involvement of county employees in the companies operating on the site. Connections between county agencies and the Esparto property have raised questions about conflicts of interest.
The Yolo County Sheriff’s Office recused itself from the case because the property is owned by two of its employees. When the investigation is complete, it will be forwarded to Yolo County District Attorney Jeff Reisig. The county Board of Supervisors, Reisig and Sheriff Tom Lopez asked the state Department of Justice to take on any criminal cases in a letter to California Attorney General Rob Bonta last month, but Bonta’s office denied their request.
In the wake of the explosion, lawmakers, experts and public safety officials are looking into legislative and regulatory changes in how state and local fire agencies oversee fireworks companies.
