UPDATE: A suspect has been arrested in connection with a deadly arson that resulted in the 14th homicide of the year in San Jose. Yessenia Estrada was taken into custody early Tuesday morning and is facing charges of murder and arson, according to the San Jose Police Department (SJPD).
The incident unfolded at approximately 3:58 a.m. on Monday in the 200 block of North 27th Street, where officers responded to reports of a raging fire at a commercial building. Upon arrival, they determined that the fire was likely the result of arson. Investigators from the San Jose Fire Department (SJFD) quickly joined the investigation to assess the scene.
Emergency responders faced immediate challenges as they could not locate an employee who was believed to be inside the building when the fire ignited. Due to the structure’s instability, a full search for potential victims was not safely feasible. However, officers indicated that signs suggested a victim might still be trapped inside. This prompted the involvement of the SJPD Homicide Unit to investigate further.
Tragically, authorities confirmed that a body was discovered within the charred remains of the structure on Tuesday. The search involved the SJPD Crime Scene Unit, SJFD Urban Search and Rescue, and the Office of the Medical Examiner. As of now, the identity of the victim has not been released.
The incident marks a significant moment for the San Jose community, as it grapples with rising violence and public safety concerns. The SJPD is urging anyone with information about the arson or homicide to come forward. Individuals can contact Detective Sergeant Barragan at (408) 277-5283 or Detective Harrington at (408) 277-5283. Anonymous tips can be submitted via the P3TIPS mobile app or through the Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers Program, where informants may qualify for cash rewards.
This arson case adds to the growing urgency for safety measures in San Jose. Community members are left to wonder about the motives behind such a devastating act, as investigators work tirelessly to uncover more details about this tragic event. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
