Jose Villalta, a Stockton grandfather, died after returning to his burning home on Dec. 27 to rescue his 14-year-old grandson. He woke his family and helped most members escape before going back inside to find the boy; he managed to get him out but did not survive. Fire crews from the Montezuma Fire Protection District responded at 12:51 a.m., and investigators say the fire was not intentionally set. The family has launched a GoFundMe that has raised over $17,000 to help with funeral and temporary housing costs.
Heroic Grandfather Dies After Returning to Burning Stockton Home to Rescue 14-Year-Old Grandson
gofundmeJose Villalta
Jose Villalta, a Stockton grandfather, died after running back into his burning home in the early hours of Dec. 27 to rescue his 14-year-old grandson. Fire crews from the Montezuma Fire Protection District arrived at 12:51 a.m. to find the house heavily involved in flames. At least four adults and two children had been inside; one adult later died at the scene.
What Happened
Family members said Villalta woke first, noticed smoke and fire, and alerted his relatives so they could escape. After everyone else was outside, he learned his grandson remained inside and went back in. He succeeded in getting the boy out, but did not make it out himself.
Villalta's son, Wilbert, described how his father woke the family and rushed back into the blaze when he realized his nephew was still inside. The flames were intense and my dad never made it out, Wilbert said.
About Villalta and the Family Response
Villalta was a retired custodian who had worked for the Ripon Unified School District, and also did sales work while helping care for his grandchildren. A migrant from El Salvador, he is remembered by family as a devoted husband to his wife Flor, a father, grandfather, brother and friend with a bright smile and charismatic sense of humor.
gofundmeThe home of Jose Villalta
His family has organized a GoFundMe fundraiser, started by daughter-in-law Jacqueline Diaz, to help cover funeral expenses and temporary housing. The campaign has raised more than $17,000 to assist the grieving family.
Investigation
The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office said its arson team determined the blaze was not intentionally set. Authorities continue to investigate other details surrounding the cause of the fire. PEOPLE reported on the incident and has reached out to local officials for additional information.
Friends and neighbors expressed condolences and support, and family members said they are leaning on faith and community as they mourn Villalta's loss and honor his sacrifice.
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