Crescent City Man Arrested in Connection to Fireworks Explosion that Killed Seven
Investigation connects Crescent City search to Esparto fireworks explosion that killed seven
(Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office)
CRESCENT CITY, Calif. — A multi-agency investigation connected to a deadly fireworks explosion earlier this year led to the arrest of a Crescent City man and the seizure of a large quantity of illegal explosives from a residential neighborhood.
According to the Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office, deputies served a search warrant on December 12 at a residence in the 500 block of Calaveras Street. The warrant stemmed from an ongoing investigation into a July 1 fireworks explosion in Esparto, California, that killed seven people.
During the search, Ronald Botelho III was taken into custody and booked on multiple felony and misdemeanor charges related to explosives, firearms, and child safety.
Felony charges include possession of destructive devices, reckless possession of explosives in or near a residential area, possession of materials with intent to manufacture a destructive device, and child endangerment. Authorities also arrested Botelho on misdemeanor charges including making, transporting, or possessing explosives, keeping a firearm accessible to a child, illegal possession of an assault-style rifle, and possession of more than 100 pounds of illegal fireworks.
Botelho’s bail was set at $500,000.
The Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the extreme danger posed by illegal fireworks and unstable explosive devices, noting that deaths and serious injuries frequently occur when such materials are mishandled or stored improperly.
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department Bomb Unit assisted with identifying, safely transporting, and destroying some of the seized devices. Officials said the materials were handled and neutralized by trained professionals to prevent injury or loss of life within the surrounding neighborhood.
(Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office)
Del Norte County Sheriff Scott issued a statement thanking Sgt. McClaflin and Investigator M. Mello for their work alongside partners from Yolo County, saying their efforts directly contributed to improved community safety.
Anyone with questions or concerns regarding the case is encouraged to contact the Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer, Captain K. Stevens, at 707-464-4191 ext. 1559.
Cover image: Del Norte County Sheriff’s Office
