The seven people killed in an explosion at an Esparto fireworks facility have been identified, including a recent high school graduate from Stockton, coroner’s officials in Yolo County announced Friday.
Angel Mathew Voller, 18, of Stockton, was among the dead, authorities confirmed.
The fatal blast was the result of a fire that broke out July 1 at a warehouse owned by Devastating Pyrotechnics. The blaze ultimately ignited the fireworks stored inside the building, spurring the massive explosion that obliterated the building and ignited a small wildfire in a nearby rural area.
At the time, two people were treated for injuries, and officials said seven people were missing. Within days, bodies were found at the site, but authorities said it was necessary to use DNA evidence to identify the remains. On Friday, coroner’s officials announced the completion of that process, identifying the victims.
In addition to Voller, Yolo County officials said the following people were killed in the blast:
- Carlos Javier Rodriguez-Mora, 43, of San Andreas
- Neil Justin Li, 41, of San Francisco
- Joel Jeremias Melendez, 28, of Sacramento
- Christopher Goltiao Bocog, 45, of San Francisco
- Jesus Manaces Ramos, 18, of San Pablo
- Jhony Ernesto Ramos, 22, of San Pablo
Even before his death was announced, Voller’s life was being celebrated by a local church and through a school baseball program where he was active.
CWC Life in Manteca honored Voller’s memory on social media two days after the explosion.
In a post signed by lead pastor Steve Perea, the church expressed its heartbreak “at the news of the passing of one of our sons Angel Voller, who tragically passed away in the Yolo County fire and explosion.”
Voller’s high school alma mater, Venture Academy in Stockton, where Voller was a pitcher on the championship varsity baseball team also shared a post.
The Stockton school described Voller, who graduated in May, as “a fierce competitor and the most loyal friend and teammate you could ever ask for. A very humble and respectful young man, Angel contributed greatly to the success of our program in all four of his high school years.”
Described as a “heck of a pitcher” by an opposing coach, Voller amassed a 10-0 record in his senior year at Venture Academy. He led the Mustangs to a Central California Athletic Alliance league championship. He also was named a CCAA pitcher of the year.
“Angel’s impact on our program, his presence and his infectious smile will never be forgotten,” the post states.