Carlos Hernandez, Christopher Benitez Obituary, Death – Authorities have confirmed that a second person has died following an explosion and fire at an apartment complex in Bell Gardens earlier this week. The incident, which occurred Tuesday evening, also left another individual injured and displaced multiple families from their homes.
According to officials, emergency crews from the Los Angeles County Fire Department responded to reports of an explosion and fire at a two-story apartment building on Purdy Avenue shortly after 6 p.m. When firefighters arrived, they encountered intense flames coming from the structure and immediately began efforts to contain the blaze and assist residents.
Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control within about an hour. Officials said the upper level of the building sustained extensive damage, and several units were affected. As a precaution, residents were evacuated while crews worked to ensure the area was safe.
Emergency responders transported two individuals to a nearby hospital following the incident. One was a young boy who was treated for injuries and later released. The second victim, an adult man, was hospitalized in critical condition but later died from his injuries. Authorities reported that the man was the older brother of a teenager who had been found deceased at the scene earlier.
Family members identified the victims as 13-year-old Carlos Hernandez and his 24-year-old brother, Christopher Benitez. Officials expressed condolences to the family and noted that the loss has deeply affected both relatives and the surrounding community.
Investigators with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and fire officials are continuing to examine the cause of the incident. Early findings suggest the fire followed an explosion inside the apartment, but authorities emphasized that the situation appears to be isolated. They stated there is no ongoing threat to nearby residents or the broader community.
Witnesses in the area reported hearing a loud noise before seeing flames, prompting multiple emergency calls. Several residents said they were shaken by the incident and grateful for the quick response from firefighters and law enforcement.
Approximately 60 firefighters were involved in the response, working to extinguish the fire and prevent it from spreading to neighboring buildings. Their efforts helped limit further damage and ensured that everyone else in the complex was safely evacuated.
As a result of the fire, multiple families were displaced from the apartment complex. The American Red Cross and local agencies assisted those affected by providing temporary housing and support services.
Officials have not released additional details as the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities continue to gather information to determine the circumstances surrounding the explosion and fire.
Community leaders and emergency officials urged residents to remain cautious and allow investigators time to complete their work. Updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
