Christopher Benitez dies in fatal Bell Gardens explosion

Christopher Benitez dies in fatal Bell Gardens explosion
Fatal Bell Gardens explosion death of Christopher Benitez – Obituary

Christopher Benitez, 24, tragically passed away early on January 29, 2026, after suffering severe burns in a massive explosion at an apartment complex in Bell Gardens, California. The explosion, which occurred earlier in the week, also claimed the life of his younger brother, 13-year-old Carlos Hernandez, whose body was found in the wreckage on Wednesday.

Investigators believe the explosion was caused by the brothers assembling a homemade firework or explosive device. According to Lt. Michael Modica of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the device involved an energetic powder that, when contained, caused the blast. A third child, an 11-year-old boy, was rescued from the scene with minor injuries and has since been released from the hospital.

Authorities are continuing the investigation and urge anyone with information to contact the sheriff’s Arson Explosives Detail.