2-year-old dies in Turlock house fire, uncle suspected of murder
A 2-year-old boy died and the child's uncle is suspected of murder following a house fire in Turlock on Wednesday morning, authorities said.
The fire broke out around 9:20 a.m. along the 1200 block of Expedition Drive. Arriving crews said they found heavy fire in the rear of the home that spread into the attic.
Police responded to the area and helped with evacuations. Police said initial reports indicated they saw a person leaving the area before the fire.
Officers said they later located the man matching the description from the report while fire crews gained control of the fire.
Police said the 2-year-old was found dead inside a bedroom after an extensive search, and a homicide investigation was launched.
The investigation revealed that the man near the scene was the child's uncle, who was the last person known to be responsible for the child's care, police said. Officers added that the fire had been intentionally set.
Officers said they arrested 29-year-old Richard Regalado for murder, aggravated arson and child abuse causing death.
"This is the kind of call that stays with you," Turlock Police Chief Jason Hedden said. "It impacts everyone who responded. A two-year-old child lost their life in a way no child ever should."
The investigation is ongoing and the child's identification has not been released.