Body of Porterville firefighter Patrick Jones recovered; officials hold procession

Porterville Fire officials say they have recovered the body of fallen firefighter Patrick Jones, 25, the second of two men who died fighting a massive blaze Tuesday at the city’s public library.

A procession carrying the body of Jones from the ruined library to the Tulare County Coroner’s Office took place early Thursday morning.

Jones’ body was escorted from Porterville on Highway 65 to Highway 137, and from there to Tulare, south on Mooney Boulevard, west on Bardsley Avenue to O Street.

Officials will hold a news conference at 10 a.m. to provide updates on the investigation of the arson fire. Fire Capt. Ray Figueroa, 35, also died in the blaze. Two 13-year-olds are being held on manslaughter and arson charges in connection with the blaze.

Jones began his career with the department as a reserve known for his passion for his duties and the many hours he spent at fire stations. He was hired as a full-time firefighter in 2017. He was preparing to become a fire engineer before he died.

This story was originally published February 20, 2020 at 5:27 AM.