Seven Victims Identified in Deadly Esparto Fireworks Explosion as Families Demand Answers

Cedar News

11-07-2025

YOLO COUNTY, Calif. — The Yolo County Sheriff's Office has released the names of the seven individuals who tragically lost their lives in the July 1 explosion at a fireworks warehouse in Esparto. The victims, who ranged in age from 18 to 45, were:
Angel Mathew Voller, 18, of Stockton
Jesus Manaces Ramos, 18, of San Pablo
Jhony Ernesto Ramos, 22, of San Pablo
Joel Jeremias Melendez, 28, of Sacramento
Neil Justin Li, 41, of San Francisco
Carlos Javier Rodriguez-Mora, 43, of San Andreas
Christopher Goltiao Bocog, 45, of San Francisco
Autopsies were completed Thursday, but official causes of death are pending toxicology results.
Remembering the Victims
The victims leave behind grieving families and a shocked community. For 18-year-old Jesus Ramos, it was his first day on the job. His girlfriend, Syanna Ruiz, is pregnant with their child. 'He saw it as a new chapter in our life,' she said, describing him as a kind and excited young man.
His older brother, Jhony, also died in the explosion. Their father described both as 'good kids' and hard workers who had graduated from high school in San Francisco.
Their stepbrother, Joel Melendez—affectionately known as 'Junior'—also perished. His mother, Lupe Melendez Mendoza, shared through tears that he was the sole provider for his wife and 11-month-old son, and that his wife is now pregnant with their second child.
Angel Voller had just graduated high school and was remembered by his former baseball team as a loyal teammate and fierce competitor. 'Angel contributed greatly to the success of our program in all four of his high school years,' the team posted.
Neil Li, believed to be the general manager of Devastating Pyrotechnics, was among the oldest of the victims. Carlos Rodriguez, also a father, was remembered by his wife in a heartbreaking Facebook post urging people to never take loved ones for granted.
Christopher Bocog's family described him as a devoted father and a selfless, supportive figure. A GoFundMe page remembers him as someone who always put others first and was deeply cherished by family and friends.
Explosion and Fire
The explosion ignited a large fire—dubbed the Oakdale Fire—which scorched approximately 80 acres and destroyed multiple structures. Residents were forced to evacuate, and the presence of hazardous materials complicated the emergency response.
Two individuals were injured, including Yolo County Sheriff's Lt. Sam Machado, who lost his home on the property.
Investigation and Legal Questions
Federal and state agencies, including the ATF and California State Fire Marshal, are now leading the investigation into the cause of the explosion. Two licensed fireworks companies—BlackStar Fireworks and Devastating Pyrotechnics—were operating at the site.
However, Yolo County officials have stated that the property was zoned for Agricultural Intensive use, which prohibits fireworks storage. No local permits or approvals were issued for storing or handling fireworks or other explosives.
Officials emphasized that such use could not be authorized under current zoning regulations unless the Board of Supervisors enacted an amendment.
Families Call for Accountability
As the investigation continues, the families of the victims—now represented by attorney Samantha Ortiz—are demanding answers. Many say they were unaware of the hazardous nature of the work or the facility's lack of permits.
A growing number of community members are calling for stricter oversight and a thorough review of county zoning and enforcement practices to prevent future tragedies.