News

Couple charged with manslaughter after gender reveal party sparks CA wildfire

A California couple is facing involuntary manslaughter charges for accidentally sparking a massive wildfire during a gender reveal party last year.

The couple held the party at El Dorado Ranch Park, using a “smoke-generating pyrotechnic device” designed to release blue or pink smoke.

But the device ended up setting fire to the dry grass - sparking a fire that would burn more than 36 square miles and destroy five homes. Firefighter Charles Morton was killed while battling the blaze.

The couple, Refugio Jimenez Jr. and Angela Jimenez, are facing up to 20 years behind bars. They’re due back in court Sept. 15th.

Joe Kelley

Joe Kelley

WDBO News Director and host the The Joe Kelley Show - weekdays from 5:00PM to 7:00PM on WDBO.

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