Refugio and Angela Jimenez to pay $1.8M after gender reveal sparked devastating wildfire and left 1 dead
YUCAIPA, CALIFORNIA: Refugio Manuel Jimenez Jr and Angela Renee Jimenez, the couple behind the 2020 gender reveal party that spiraled into a devastating wildfire, have agreed to a plea deal that includes a hefty $1,789,972 in restitution.
The calamitous incident destroyed 23,000 acres of land, 20 buildings, and claimed the life of an 18-year veteran firefighter, Charles Morton.
Gender reveal turned into a catastrophe
The ill-fated celebration took place on September 5, 2020 at El Dorado Ranch Park, where the Jimenezes attempted to unveil the gender of their expected child using a "smoke-generating pyrotechnic device."
Unfortunately, the pyrotechnics, set off in dry and critical fire weather conditions, ignited the dry grass, quickly spiraling into the destructive El Dorado Fire that ravaged San Bernardino County for months.
Devastating wildfire's aftermath
The scale of the disaster required the efforts of over 1,200 people, eight helicopters, and 120 fire engines to contain the flames. Tragically, Charles lost his life on September 17, when the fire reached a remote area where firefighters were working.
The blaze also injured 13 others, forced hundreds to evacuate their homes, and left a trail of destruction, laying five houses and 15 other buildings to waste. “It really is a tragedy, it’s sad. They were hoping to remember the day in a different way,” expressed Captain Bennet Milloy, the fire investigator.
What are the charges against the duo?
The legal repercussions for the Jimenezes were severe. In 2021, they were charged with one felony count of involuntary manslaughter, along with over 30 other felony counts related to 22 victims who suffered injuries or property loss.
Last Friday, February 16, the San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office announced the plea deal, requiring the couple to pay $1.8 million in restitution. Refugio has pled guilty to involuntary manslaughter and two counts of recklessly causing a fire to an inhabited structure.
His sentence includes one year in jail, two years of felony probation, and 200 hours of community service. Meanwhile, Angela has pled guilty to three misdemeanor counts of recklessly causing a fire to the property of another. She will serve one year of summary probation and complete 400 hours of community service.
