3-Year-Old Boy Severely Burned in Fire Pit Explosion; Community Rallies

UPDATE: A 3-year-old boy from Morgan Hill, California is currently recovering from severe burns following a devastating fire pit explosion on October 4, 2023. As his family prepares for the long road ahead, community support has surged in response to this urgent situation.

Sebastian Reynoso was set to enjoy a family s’mores night when the tabletop fire pit exploded, sending flames shooting towards him. The accident left him with second- and third-degree burns over approximately 15 percent of his body, affecting his face, neck, and arms. His father, Omar Reynoso, shared that Sebastian has been hospitalized for over a month, undergoing multiple surgeries, including skin grafts and treatments for a narrowed airway.

“This has been one of the hardest experiences of my life,” Omar said, emphasizing the emotional toll on their family. “I don’t wish this on anybody.” Sebastian’s recovery is complicated, with more surgeries and extensive rehabilitation ahead, and his future remains uncertain.

The fire pit involved, a product from Rozato, is reportedly fueled by rubbing alcohol or bioethanol. Despite its low price of $14.99, the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a warning in December 2024 about the dangers of using fire pits that burn alcohol, citing at least 60 injuries and two deaths since 2019. Omar and his family were unaware of this alert at the time of the incident.

Sebastian was initially treated at St. Louise Regional Hospital before being transferred to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center. His condition was critical; he was intubated for nearly three weeks due to airway swelling, eventually requiring a tracheostomy to aid his breathing.

“He’s a very strong kid,” Omar remarked, noting that the healing process could take up to a year. Sebastian, normally active and joyful, has found the experience confusing and distressing. His parents are by his side constantly, with Omar stating, “We have not left him alone for a moment.”

Amid this crisis, the family set up a GoFundMe campaign, which has raised over $47,000 towards a goal of $200,000 to cover medical expenses not fully covered by their insurance. “The community’s response has been unbelievable,” Omar expressed, overwhelmed by the support they have received.

However, financial challenges mount. The family received a bill for the ambulance ride totaling $14,000, with only $3,000 covered by insurance. Additionally, the critical illness insurance does not cover Sebastian’s care because his burns do not exceed the 20 percent threshold required.

Sebastian’s treatment will also include laser therapy, particularly on his right cheek, to improve the appearance of his scars. “We’ll do whatever it takes for our son, even if it means going into debt,” Omar stated resolutely.

As Sebastian continues to heal, the family encourages awareness about the dangers of such fire pits. The community’s support brings some comfort, but they remain focused on what lies ahead for their brave little boy.

The situation is developing rapidly, and updates on Sebastian’s condition and recovery will continue to emerge as the family navigates this challenging journey.