Woman killed in July 4 SoCal fireworks explosion identified
Coroner's officials have identified a 23-year-old woman who was killed in a massive fireworks explosion while celebrating Independence Day in Southern California on July 4.
Leslie Jacqueline Viguerias Bustos, 23, died shortly after the explosion, which took place about 8:30 p.m. in a residential neighborhood in the 5600 block of D Street in Chino, according to Los Angeles County Medical Examiner's officials. Her city of residence was not listed in coroner's records.
A formal cause of death was yet to be determined through an autopsy.
Two other adults suffered serious injuries, while a child was treated for lesser injuries, Chino Police Department officials said at the time.
Man arrested on suspicion of manslaughter
Officers arrested Derion Tradon James Jr., 28, of Hesperia at the scene on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the deadly blast, according to police and San Bernardino County booking records.
He was released from custody two days later pending an initial court appearance after posting $50,000 bail.
No charges had been filed in connection with the incident as of Thursday, July 9.
'A large quantity of fireworks ignited, causing the explosion'
Police first responded to a report of a vehicle fire.
"Upon arrival, officers discovered that an explosion had occurred and several people had been injured," police said in a written statement. "As a result of the explosion, a nearby vehicle also became engulfed in flames."
Rescuers rushed the victims to a hospital for treatment.
Bustos succumbed to her injuries a short time later. The two other seriously injured adults were expected to survive.
"Based on the preliminary investigation, detectives believe a large quantity of fireworks ignited, causing the explosion," the statement said.
'She was the strength in the family'
Bustos, known to loved ones as "Jackie," suffered horrific injuries in the explosion, friend Jessica Davila wrote in a memorial accompanying an online fundraiser established to help the grieving family.
"A limb was lost during this event, and the right side of her body was burned," she said. "She was 23 and was just living her best life when she lost her life suddenly."
"She was a fiancé, and her family is devastated to know of her loss," Davila added. "She was the strength in the family and always helped her family with what they needed. It was tragic seeing her in that state and [they] need the support from those who can give it."
The Ontario Fire Department Bob Squad was assisting the Chino Police Department in the ongoing investigation.
Anyone with information was urged to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 334-3136.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Woman killed in July 4 SoCal fireworks explosion identified
Reporting by Brian Day, USA TODAY NETWORK / USA TODAY
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Copyright Reuters or USA Today Network via Reuters Connect
This story was originally published July 9, 2026 at 2:39 PM.