Esparto Explosion Suspects Denied Bail After Emotional Pleas

Families of victims address court, say they will 'never be the same' after deadly fireworks warehouse blast.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:34pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a twisted, blackened piece of metal from the Esparto fireworks warehouse explosion, capturing the gritty, investigative nature of the crime scene.The charred remnants of the Esparto fireworks warehouse explosion serve as a somber reminder of the tragedy that shook the local community.Woodland Today

Five people indicted on murder charges in connection with the deadly Esparto fireworks warehouse explosion will remain in jail as the case continues, following emotional court hearings where families of the seven men killed addressed the court for the first time and urged the judge to deny bail.

Why it matters

The Esparto explosion has devastated the local community, with families describing the lasting impact of losing their loved ones in the tragedy. The decision to deny bail for the defendants accused of conspiracy and murder reflects the gravity of the case and the desire of prosecutors to ensure justice is served.

The details

According to the indictment, Samuel Machado, Kenneth Chee, Gary Chan, Jack Lee and Douglas Tollefsen are charged with multiple counts of second-degree murder, while Craig Cutright and Ronald Botelho face multiple felony charges, including conspiracy and explosives-related offenses. Tammy Machado is charged separately, including mortgage fraud. Prosecutors allege the case involves a decade-long conspiracy that turned a former sheriff's lieutenant's home into a hub for illegal explosives.

  • The explosion occurred on the afternoon of July 1.
  • Bail hearings were held on Thursday, April 16, 2026.

The players

Jhannelly Ramos

Relative of victims Jesus and Johnny Ramos, who were killed in the explosion.

Tiffany Rodriguez

Wife of victim Carlos Rodriguez, who was killed in the explosion.

Matt Voller

Father of teenage victim Angel Voller, who was killed in the explosion.

Samuel Machado

One of the defendants charged with multiple counts of second-degree murder.

Tammy Machado

A defendant charged separately, including mortgage fraud.

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What they’re saying

“We will never be the same.”

— Jhannelly Ramos, Relative of victims

“The impact on our family has been something that we will carry forever. This was not a small or isolated event. Multiple lives, people's brothers, sons were taken.”

— Tiffany Rodriguez, Wife of victim

“The defendants are asking to go home, but my husband and the others will never have the opportunity again.”

— Tiffany Rodriguez, Wife of victim

“For years, they got to do what they wanted. They took advantage of the system. So, I ask now that there's no bail granted.”

— Matt Voller, Father of victim

“The hurt we have every day doesn't go away. It won't go away. This is a daily, daily hurt. Hourly hurt.”

— Matt Voller, Father of victim

What’s next

Arraignments and bail reviews for the remaining defendants were continued until next Wednesday, when prosecutors expect relatives to return for the next hearing.

The takeaway

The decision to deny bail for the defendants accused of conspiracy and murder in the Esparto explosion case reflects the gravity of the tragedy and the community's desire for justice. Families have described the lasting impact of losing their loved ones, underscoring the need for a thorough and fair legal process.