‘My nephew was very loved.’ Family remembers young boy killed in Fresno arson house fire
The fire that ripped through a central Fresno home early Wednesday morning left a family heartbroken.
Isaac Vallejo, 7, was killed in the fire that authorities say was started by someone who poured an accelerant at both front and back doors of the home.
Later in the day, family and friends of Vallejo placed balloons, candles, and a stuffed animal. At a vigil Wednesday night, family remembered Isaac.
His aunt, Angelica, read a statement about what Vallejo meant to the family and wants the person responsible for the crime to turn themself in.
“I want to thank all the firefighters who came out, along with the Fresno Police Department as well. On behalf of my brothers and sister-in-law I would like you to all know that my nephew was very loved. He was fun, outgoing and everybody loved him. This is a very sad tragedy and we don’t wish this upon anybody else. I ask that you keep my brother and sister-in-law in your prayers. I am please asking for our community to come forward with any information that they know, that they think they may know so we can get justice for my nephew Isaac. Also, a lot of you know what you have on a daily routine of life. This family has nothing. Anything is greatly appreciated. Clothing, toothbrush, necessities, etc. We have a GoFundMe up and if you have any questions please feel free to contact the person on GoFundMe. Again, I want to thank everybody for showing all their love and support. Also, I want to give a thanks to my brother’s dear friend, Carlos who is currently in the hospital and was able to save the two boys. You’re definitely a hero in our eyes. You’re beyond appreciated and we love you,” she said.
The family gathered on the street in a circle and released yellow balloons.
“Long live Isaac, baby,” a family member said. “Fly high, baby boy.”
Two GoFundMe accounts have been set up to help the family with funeral and other expenses.
Vallejo was unable to escape as flames exploded at both exits of the home near College and McKenzie avenues about 4:30 a.m. Wednesday.
A 13-year-old teenager escaped, but was injured jumping from a second-story window. Four other occupants were able to get out of the house as well.
Fire crews remained at the scene throughout the day as authorities investigated the arson.
Anyone with information is asked to call police at 559-621-7000.
