Two brothers died in an explosion and fire at a Bell Gardens apartment that was still being investigated by bomb squad members, family members said.
Bomb squad personnel were on the scene Thursday morning behind yellow tape blocking a portion of Purdy Avenue, south of East Gage Avenue. A nearby memorial contained candles, flowers and photos of the two brothers who died in the explosion at the two-story home about 7 p.m. Tuesday.
Authorities say a 13-year-old boy went missing and a body was found inside the home on Wednesday. The medical examiner did not release the identity of that person, but NBCLA’s sister station did Telemundo 52 spoke to family members who identified him as 13-year-old Carlos Hernandez.
He was a seventh grade student at Suva Intermediate School.
Carlos’ 27-year-old half-brother was also killed in the blast and a third brother suffered burns, the family said.
Sheriff’s Department investigators said they plan to be on the scene for several days to collect evidence and figure out what led to the explosion. According to authorities, materials to make homemade explosives and fireworks were found in the home.
“During their initial investigation and processing of the scene, (investigators) observed materials consistent with homemade explosives and fireworks,” an LASD statement said.
Four families were displaced and the building was declared uninhabitable.
Residents said the explosion rocked the neighborhood.
“It sounded like an earthquake,” said Charlie Sid. “I was in my room and I felt something hitting my window.”
Anyone with information about the explosion was urged to contact the sheriff’s Arson Explosives Detail at 323-881-7500. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at lacrimestoppers.org.
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