Tragedy has struck the San Diego Padres organization and the wider baseball community as reports confirm a devastating house fire at the residence of Padres President of Baseball Operations, A.J. Preller. The blaze, which broke out just minutes ago in the upscale La Jolla neighborhood of San Diego, has reportedly claimed the lives of Preller’s wife, Jennifer, and at least five neighbors.
Emergency services were alerted at approximately 3:19 p.m. local time when a massive structure fire erupted at Preller’s home. Witnesses described hearing a loud explosion followed by a fast-moving inferno that engulfed multiple homes on the block. Thick plumes of smoke could be seen from miles away as fire crews rushed to the scene.
Initial reports from the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department confirm that the fire quickly spread to adjacent homes due to intense winds and close property proximity. It took nearly 45 minutes to contain the flames, and recovery efforts are still underway. At least six fatalities have been confirmed so far, including Jennifer Preller and five neighbors whose names have not yet been released pending family notification.
A.J. Preller, one of Major League Baseball’s most influential executives and a pivotal figure in the Padres’ recent successes, was reportedly not home at the time of the incident. He was attending a team meeting at Petco Park and was immediately notified of the tragedy. Sources close to the organization say he is currently receiving support from team officials and loved ones.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Early speculation points to a possible gas leak or electrical malfunction, but San Diego fire investigators have stated that it is too early to determine a definitive cause. Arson is not suspected at this time, though all possibilities remain open.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria issued a brief statement moments ago: “This is an unimaginable tragedy for our community. Our thoughts are with A.J. Preller, the victims’ families, and everyone affected by this horrible event. We will do everything in our power to support them during this time.”
Tributes have begun pouring in from across Major League Baseball. The Padres organization released a short message on social media: “We are heartbroken and devastated by the tragic events involving A.J. Preller and his family. Our entire Padres family is grieving. Please keep them in your thoughts.”
The neighborhood has been cordoned off as investigators and emergency personnel continue their work. Counseling services are being made available to nearby residents and members of the Padres organization, many of whom were visibly shaken by the news.
More information is expected to emerge in the coming hours as authorities confirm the identities of the other victims and provide updates on the investigation.
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