Jesus Ramos, 18, was excited to start a new job at a fireworks factory in Esparto, California. It was his first day—and tragically, it was also his last. He was one of seven workers killed in a devastating explosion on July 1, alongside his brothers Johnny Ramos and Joel “Junior” Melendez.
Jesus had just learned he was going to be a father. His girlfriend, Syanna Ruiz, said, “He saw it as a new chapter. He was excited. He was a good person.”
The blast left all seven workers missing. After days of searching, Yolo County officials confirmed the recovery of their remains on July 6. Due to safety concerns, rescue efforts were delayed, leaving families desperate for answers.
Their heartbroken mother, Marisol Ramos, even pleaded to help search the site herself: “I want to search for my kids,” she said tearfully.
The family described the brothers as hardworking and full of promise. “They had so much coming for them,” Ruiz shared. “They were all incredible men.”
A GoFundMe has been set up to help cover funeral costs and support the Ramos family during the investigation, which remains ongoing under the state fire marshal’s direction.