Homicide Investigation Following Fatal Residential Fire
April 2, 2026 – Turlock Police Department officials report that a 2-year-old child was found deceased following a residential fire in Turlock on Wednesday morning, prompting a homicide investigation.
On April 1, 2026, at approximately 9:20 a.m., the Turlock Fire Department responded to a working structure fire in the 1200 block of Expedition Ave. Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy fire involvement in the rear of the structure that had extended into the attic.
Turlock Fire, along with its MST resource-sharing partners, responded with a full alarm assignment totaling 25 fire personnel, as well as AMR Units. The Stanislaus Regional Fire Investigations Unit also responded and will be responsible for determining the cause and origin of the fire.
Turlock Police officers responded to assist with evacuations and securing the area. During the initial response, witnesses reported seeing an individual leave the area just prior to the fire. Officers quickly located a man matching that description nearby.
Once the fire was brought under control, firefighters conducted an extensive search of the residence and tragically located a 2-year-old child deceased inside a bedroom.
“Our crews arrived to a home fully engulfed in flames with reports that a child was inside,” said Deputy Fire Chief Chris Jelinek. “Firefighters worked quickly to control the fire and search the home under extremely difficult conditions. This is a tragic outcome that weighs heavily on everyone who responded.”
Given the circumstances, the case was immediately assigned to Turlock Police detectives as a homicide investigation. Detectives determined the fire had been intentionally set. The individual located near the scene was identified as the child’s uncle and the last known person responsible for the child’s care.
Richard Regalado, 29, of Turlock, was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on the following charges:
187(a) PC – Murder
451.5(a) PC – Aggravated Arson
273ab(a) PC – Child Abuse Causing Death
“This is the kind of call that stays with you,” said 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 Detective Giovacchini at the Turlock Police Department at (209) 668-6539.
Source & photo: Turlock Police Department
