2 Brothers Dead Following LA County Apartment Explosion

BELL GARDENS, CA — Homicide detectives are investigating the deadly explosion at a Bell Gardens apartment complex on Tuesday that has now claimed the lives of two brothers, who authorities say were killed in a blast that's connected to the manufacturing of homemade fireworks.

The explosion, which occurred around 6 p.m. Tuesday, caused a fire and major damage at the building on the 6500 block of Purdy Avenue. It took about 60 firefighters to extinguish the blaze in about an hour, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

"The whole top of the roof is blown off," Lt. Michael Modica told the Los Angeles Times.

A boy and a man were initially reported injured in the blast. The 11-year-old was treated and released. The man — later identified as Christopher Benitez, 24 — was in critical condition Wednesday morning and died later that day, KTLA reported.

Authorities later said that Benitez's brother, 13-year-old Carlos Hernandez was found dead inside the apartment where Tuesday's blast occurred, KTLA reported.

The 11-year-old is not related to the brothers and was either leaving or arriving at the apartment at the time of the blast, NBC Los Angeles reported.

Bell Gardens Police Chief Paul Camacho said the case highlights the danger of fireworks, particularly homemade ones.

"People just don't understand how dangerous this stuff can be," he said at a news conference.

On Thursday, sheriff's officials said they suspect someone in the apartment was manufacturing illegal fireworks. They found evidence of illegally stockpiled explosive powder along with large pipes, according to the station.

Homicide detectives are leading the investigation due to the explosives killed the two brothers.

A GoFundMe has been set up for the brothers by their sister.

Benitez was a National Guardsman and full time student. "Chris was brave, fearless, smart, and kind—always there for everyone, helping in any way he could," his sister wrote.

Like his older brother, Carlos was an active member of the local Catholic community, according to his sister.

"He was full of life, with a great sense of humor that made everyone smile, even during hard times. Carlos was a wonderful friend and an even better family member," she wrote.

Authorities said they believe the explosion was an isolated incident and there is no threat to the community.

The building, which was badly damaged in the explosion, has been red tagged. Four to six families were displaced and the American Red Cross is assisting them, NBC Los Angeles reported.