TURLOCK, Calif. (KFSN) — The Turlock Police Department is investigating a homicide after a 2-year-old was found dead after a home caught on fire on Wednesday morning.
According to officers, around 9:20 a.m., the Turlock Fire Department was called to a house fire.
When they arrived, firefighters found flames coming out of the back of the house and into the attic.
Turlock police assisted with evacuating the area.
According to Turlock police, witnesses reported seeing a man leave the home just before the fire started.
Officers quickly located the suspect: 29-year-old Richard Regalado of Turlock.
After the fire was put out, firefighters searched the home and found the 2-year-old dead in a bedroom.
The case was immediately given to Turlock Police detectives, and it was determined that the fire had been set on purpose.
Regalado was identified as the 2-year-old’s uncle and was caring for the child at the time.
He was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of murder, aggravated arson and child abuse causing death.
“This is the kind of call that stays with you,” said Turlock Police Chief Jason Hedden. “It impacts everyone who responded. A two-year-old child lost their life in a way no child ever should. Our hearts are with the family, and we will do everything we can to ensure accountability.”
This remains an active investigation.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Turlock Police Department.
