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HEARTBREAK IN BELL GARDENS: Two brothers identified as victims in a horrific apartment building explosion, with a scene so devastating it leaves everyone who sees it shaken.

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BELL GARDENS, Calif. (KABC) — A second person has died following a massive explosion at a Bell Gardens apartment building earlier this week.

Christopher Benitez, 24, died at the hospital Thursday just after midnight, according to investigators. He suffered serious burns throughout most of his body.

Benitez is the older brother of 13-year-old Carlos Hernandez, whose body was discovered in the rubble on Wednesday.

Another boy, an 11-year-old, was rescued from the building. He suffered minor injuries and has since been released from the hospital.

Explosion may have been caused by homemade explosives

Investigators believe the brothers were assembling a homemade firework or explosive device when the blast occurred, said LASD Lt. Michael Modica during at a news conference outside the apartment building.

“What we do know and what we do suspect is an energetic powder that was used to create the massive explosion,” said Modica.

“If you put them on a plate and lit them … they would just fizz or make a light or a small explosion. If you take them and you contain them in something, then that creates pressure which then would create an explosion,” he added.

Meantime, anyone with information about the explosion was urged to contact the sheriff’s Arson Explosives Detail at 323-881-7500.

“People just don’t understand how dangerous this stuff can be, and I think as a result of what we see behind us … that is the consequences of not following the laws and not really kind of … doing what you’re supposed to do,” said Bell Gardens Police Chief Paul Camacho.

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**”A DAUGHTER’S WORST NIGHTMARE. 🚨🕯️ The world of broadcast news came to a standstill today as Savannah Guthrie delivered the final, heartbreaking update on her mother’s disappearance. Live on air, with a voice trembling from a grief too profound for words, Savannah confirmed that Nancy Guthrie has been found in the outskirts of the Arizona desert. What was once a high-profile search is now a pursuit for criminal justice. The grace Savannah has shown in the face of this ‘Final Discovery’ is nothing short of heroic, but the cost of the truth has been devastating. Even veteran reporters were left in tears by the personal details Savannah shared about their final moments together. Find the full details of the investigation and join the community in honoring Nancy’s memory in the comments below.

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**”A GLIMMER OF LIGHT ON DAY 4. 🚨💪 Maya Gebala is showing the world what it means to fight. Nurses report that she is now trying to initiate her own breaths and is showing pupil response—small signs that mean everything in this critical hour. The family’s message is simple: One breath at a time. They are seeing the progress they’ve been praying for. She isn’t giving up, and neither are we. Stay with us for the full update on Maya’s condition in the first comment.

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“BEYOND THE BROADCAST. 📺💔 As the search for Savannah Guthrie’s family continues, Craig Melvin is proving that friendship goes far deeper than the studio lights. Choosing to step away from the headlines to offer his unwavering support, Craig’s gesture has touched the hearts of millions. In a world of constant noise, his silence speaks volumes. It’s a testament to a bond that refuses to let a colleague walk through the fire alone. We stand with Savannah, and we applaud the kindness that reminds us we are human first, and professionals second. 🕊️

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“MORE THAN JUST COLLEAGUES. 📺💔 Putting humanity before the broadcast, Craig Melvin has paused his major career plans to support Savannah Guthrie during her family’s darkest hour. No search for medals, no chasing cameras—just the quiet power of being there. As the agony of the search continues, Craig’s decision serves as a beacon of light, reminding us all that showing up for each other is the most important role we can ever play. True friendship shines brightest in the shadows.

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