(L.A.) Carlos Hernandez, 13, Died in Bell Gardens

Case Number: 2026-01661

Los Angeles County is reporting the death of a 13-year-old Latino male that occurred at his residence in Bell Gardens.

The coroner’s office identified the boy as Carlos Hernandez.

Manner of Death: Accident

Cause of Death: Smoke Inhalation and Thermal Injuries

RIP CARLOS ABRAHAM HERNANDEZ ( January 27, 2026)

Formal pronouncement of death was made on Tuesday.

The decedent and his older brother were injured in a massive explosion and fire at a two-story apartment complex in the 6500 block of Purdy Avenue.

Carlos died at the scene. His brother suffered burns covering 90% of his body and would die on January 29 at the hospital.

Homemade explosives and fireworks appear to have been the cause of the blast.

Note that there are multiple decedents named “Carlos Hernandez” in public records.

(L.A.) Christopher Benitez, 24, Died in a Hospital