This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
The Couple That Caused The El Dorado Fire At Their Gender Reveal Has Pleaded Guilty
Smoke from the El Dorado Fire that started Sept. 5, 2020 in San Bernardino National Forest.
(
Zach Behrens
/
US Forest Service
)
The couple who caused 2020's deadly El Dorado Fire in the San Bernardino Mountains has pleaded guilty to charges including involuntary manslaughter and recklessly causing fire to inhabited structures.
How it happened: In high September heat, the couple set off a smoke bomb at their gender reveal party sparking a fire which quickly spread and threatened communities in the San Bernardino Mountains.
The charges: Refugio Jimenez Jr. pled guilty to three felony charges, including a charge of involuntary manslaughter. Angelina Jimenez pled guilty to three misdemeanor charges.
The punishment: Refugio Jimenez Jr. faces a year in jail, 200 hours of community service, and two years of felony probation, according to the San Bernardino County District Attorney's office on Friday. Angelina Jimenez will face 400 hours of community service and one year of probation. The couple was also ordered to pay over $1.7 million in damages.
The damage: The El Dorado fire killed one firefighter and burned more than 22,000 acres in Riverside and San Bernardino counties over two months.
Trending on LAist
-
Experts say parents should validate feelings and create avenues for kids to express themselves. -
Why did hydrants run dry in the midst of a conflagration? City officials stressed that the shortage was due to low water pressure, not a complete lack of water. But what caused it, and can it be prevented? -
Homes, businesses and cherished community spots went up in flames. -
If you’ve been ordered to leave because of fire, here’s some CalFire tips for protecting your property and making it easier for firefighters.
-
Test scores are only one measure of what happens inside a school. Here’s what to look for to find the best fit for your child. -
Roughly 82,400 residents remain under evacuation orders or warnings across Los Angeles County.
Best of LAist
