News

Two Adults Killed, Three Children Injured in House Fire

Published

4 years ago

June 30, 2021

MODESTO – Authorities from various agencies are investigating the cause of a deadly fire Wednesday morning that claimed the lives of two adults and injured three children.

Shortly after 7:00am several calls were made reporting a house fire on El Sereno Street in South Modesto. The callers reported there were people trapped inside of the home. Firefighters on scene reported heavy fire conditions from the front of the home and called for a second alarm.

Several rescues were conducted. Fire Chief Alan Ernst said firefighters rescued people through windows of the home who were trapped inside. Ammunition found in the home along with aerosol containers complicated the situation for fire crews trying to bring the situation under control.

Chief Ernst said two adults were deceased as a result of the fire. Two children had to be airlifted by helicopter to burn centers. One was treated by medical personnel on the scene.

Investigators with the Modesto Police Department, Stanislaus Regional Fire Investigations Unit and other agencies were on scene examining the home well into Wednesday afternoon. Early reports indicated several callers reported fireworks going off around the time of the fire, but that has yet to be determined.

Witnesses watching from the street said one of the residents at the home was a car detailer and was well liked by the neighbors.

Anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636 where callers can remain anonymous.

News

Crash Claims Life of Motorist in Northeast Modesto

Published

14 hours ago

March 19, 2025

Carlos Rodriguez

MODESTO – A Monday afternoon crash in the northeast side of the city claimed the life of a Waterford man, police reported.

At about 6:30pm emergency crews responded to a report of a two vehicle crash near the intersection of Claus and Milnes Roads. Arriving personnel found an unresponsive driver in one of the involved vehicles. Despite life saving efforts the driver died from his injuries.

Authorities say the investigation indicates a black Acura ILX was headed west on Milnes Road and was broadsided by a Ford F150 as it entered Claus Road.

No further details were released.

Police are asking for any witnesses to contact Officer Cristian Avina at avinac@modestopd.com.

News

House Fire Leads to Evacuations

Published

23 hours ago

March 18, 2025

Carlos Rodriguez

CERES – Police officers evacuated neighboring residents near a home that caught fire late Tuesday night.

The fire was dispatched at about 11:15pm near the 1300 block of Riverette Drive. Arriving emergency personnel reported fire from the back of the home. Early reports indicate the occupants were able to safely escape.

Additional police officers responded to evacuate neighbors, some also responding to the nearby mobile home park.

Several fire crews responded to the scene. No further details were available at time of publication.

News

Dale Road Shooting Suspect Identified

Published

1 day ago

March 18, 2025

CVTV Staff

MODESTO – Authorities identified the suspect involved in Monday afternoon’s shooting on Dale Road.

Jimmy Lee Rupe, 40 years old of Modesto, was involved in the incident that unfolded at Max Muscle on Dale Road. Police say he had multiple felony warrants for his arrest on firearms related charges and lewd acts with a child.

Details are still being investigated, but early reports indicate during the encounter with Rupe, gunfire was exchanged with officers. Rupe did not survive.

Much of Dale Road was closed through the evening while police investigated. Videos posted to social media groups showed a large police response and several gunshots being fired. One video showed people dining at a neighboring restaurant ducking under tables as the gunfire continued.

Police say a community briefing with more details will be provided in the near future.