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, 25, was taken into custody by patrol officers on Tuesday and is now booked into the Santa Clara County Jail on charges of murder and arson.
The incident unfolded early on Monday morning, when San Jose Police Department (SJPD) officers responded to a fire at a commercial building located in the 200 block of North 27th Street at approximately 3:58 a.m.. Upon arrival, officers determined that the fire was likely caused by arson, prompting the involvement of SJFD Arson investigators.
Authorities faced challenges during their response, as they could not locate an employee believed to be inside the building at the time of the fire. Due to structural instability, a safe search for potential victims could not be conducted immediately. However, multiple indicators suggested that a victim might still be trapped inside. Consequently, the SJPD Homicide Unit was called to the scene to collaborate with the SJFD Arson team in the investigation.
Tragically, a body was discovered within the structure on Tuesday by the SJPD Crime Scene Unit, SJFD Urban Search and Rescue, and the Office of the Medical Examiner. The identity of the victim has not yet been disclosed, leaving the community in shock and mourning.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about this ongoing investigation to come forward. Interested individuals can contact Detective Sergeant Barragan #4106 or Detective Harrington #4365 of the SJPD Homicide Unit via email at [email protected] or [email protected], or by calling (408) 277-5283. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the P3TIPS mobile app, by calling the tip line at (408) 947-STOP, or visiting www.siliconvalleycrimestoppers.org. Those whose information leads to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward from the Silicon Valley Crime Stoppers Program.
The San Jose community is reeling from this shocking incident, underscoring the urgency for justice and safety in the area. As the investigation continues, updates are expected to emerge, highlighting the importance of community awareness and involvement in addressing such tragic events.
