Richmond arson suspect arrested after fatal house fire kills three relatives

Sergio Rivera-Vega, 32, has been arrested in connection with a fatal house fire in Richmond, California. Authorities allege that Rivera-Vega intentionally set the blaze at a residence on the 200 block of 15th Street, where he lived with several relatives.

The fire resulted in the deaths of three people: Rivera-Vega’s 47-year-old father, Jose Rivera, who died at the scene, and his 5-year-old nephew, Andrew, and 2-year-old niece, Joline, who later succumbed to their injuries at a hospital. The children’s mother remains in critical condition.

Richmond Police Chief Timothy Simmons stated that detectives apprehended Rivera-Vega near the scene during their investigation. The suspect was taken into custody without further incident. The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral and burial expenses following the tragedy.