Toddler's Death in Turlock Fire Investigated as Homicide

Uncle babysitting 2-year-old boy faces murder, arson, and child abuse charges

Apr. 3, 2026 at 12:34am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up of a charred, twisted metal object, such as a door handle or window frame, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying a stark, gritty, and investigative aesthetic.The aftermath of a tragic fire that claimed the life of a young child exposes the grim realities of suspected homicide and the need for greater protections for vulnerable families.Turlock Today

The Turlock Police Department and Stanislaus Regional Fire Investigation Unit are investigating the alleged murder of a 2-year-old boy found dead after a residential fire. The boy's uncle, Richard Regalado, who was babysitting him at the time, has been arrested and charged with murder, aggravated arson, and child abuse causing death.

Why it matters

The tragic death of a young child has shaken the close-knit Turlock neighborhood, where the toddler was known for his bubbly personality and friendly interactions with neighbors. The investigation into the suspected homicide has raised concerns about child safety and the need for greater support and oversight for families.

The details

According to police, the fire was intentionally set, and the 2-year-old's body was discovered in a bedroom of the house about two hours after the initial dispatch. Regalado, who lived with the family and often babysat the child, was seen leaving the house in a distressed state around 15 minutes before the fire was reported.

  • The fire was reported on April 3, 2026.
  • The 2-year-old boy's body was discovered in a bedroom about two hours after the initial dispatch.

The players

Richard Regalado

The uncle of the 2-year-old boy, who was babysitting the child at the time of the fire and has been charged with murder, aggravated arson, and child abuse causing death.

Darrah King

A neighbor who described the toddler as a bubbly child who often played outside and greeted her cats through the window.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'I would always see him with his mom, and they would walk to their mailbox. And he would run up here 'cause I have cats and they'll come up to the window, and he'll always come up and see how the cats are. There's no reason for someone to hurt a baby and I hope justice is served. And the mom, my momma heart hurts for her.'”

— Darrah King, Neighbor

What’s next

The Turlock Police Department and Stanislaus Regional Fire Investigation Unit are continuing their investigation into the alleged murder and arson. The judge will decide on whether to grant bail for Richard Regalado, who remains in custody without bail.

The takeaway

This tragic incident has shattered the sense of safety in the Turlock neighborhood, raising urgent questions about child welfare, the need for better support and oversight for families, and the importance of swift justice in cases of suspected child abuse and homicide.