Tragic LA Explosion: Teen Killed in Apartment Blast Tied to Homemade Explosives

Materials associated with homemade explosives and fireworks have been discovered at the scene of a devastating explosion and fire in a Los Angeles County apartment building. This tragic incident resulted in the death of a teenager, according to a recent report.

FOX 11 Los Angeles broadcast aerial footage revealing significant damage, including a section of the roof blown off, at the apartment complex located in Bell Gardens. The explosion, which occurred on Tuesday, has left the community in shock.

Authorities have confirmed that the remains found at the explosion site are believed to belong to a 13-year-old who was reported missing shortly after the incident. This information was reported by the station, highlighting the tragedy of the situation.

During the initial stages of the investigation, officials uncovered items related to homemade explosives and fireworks, as well as ammunition. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Special Enforcement Bureau, specifically the Arson and Explosives Detail, is actively participating in the ongoing investigation to determine the cause and circumstances surrounding the explosion.

The aftermath of the explosion at the Bell Gardens apartment building is evident, as shown in images captured on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. (KTTV)

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for further comment. 

The identity of the teenager was not immediately released.

The interior of an apartment in Bell Gardens, in Los Angeles County, that was destroyed in an explosion this week. (KTTV)

The teenager attended Suva Intermediate School, according to FOX 11.

“We are aware of a recent tragic incident that occurred in the Bell Gardens community that has impacted our school community,” Suva Intermediate School said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with all those affected during this difficult time.” 

More than 60 firefighters from the Los Angeles County Fire Department responded to the scene on Tuesday and took about an hour to put out the blaze, the station reported. 

Materials linked to homemade explosives and fireworks were found by investigators at the apartment in Bell Gardens, Calif., according to a report. (KTTV)

It cited fire officials as saying that two other people were hospitalized following the incident — a child who is in stable condition and an adult who is in critical condition.