Did Wilber Romero set the fire that killed his parents and sister and destroyed the family home in the early morning hours of October 13, 2019? Although the defense still maintains there is questionable debate as to how that fire actually started, on October 13, 2022, just weeks before his trial was set to commence, Wilber Romero, now 29, pled guilty to second-degree murder. To read about that desperate night, the frantic efforts to try to save the family, and the legal proceeding which followed, please read my in-depth story, “A Son Accused: Did Wilber Romero Set the Fire That Killed His Family?” on my website at: https://www.aleidalaw.com.
Wilber Romero Receives a Long Sentence
Today, under a stipulated agreement, Judge Kenneth So sentenced Wilber Romero to 45-years-to-life (15-years-to-life for each death). Although questions may remain in the case, what is certain is this: Wilber’s father, Jose Antonio Romero, 46, perished in the fire and Wilber’s mother, Nicolasa Mayo-Romero, 46, died the following day in hospital care. Wilber’s younger sister, Iris Kristal Romero, 21, was determined brain dead after unsuccessful resuscitation efforts and died at the hospital two days after the inferno.
Wendy Romero, 24 at the time, was the fortune one, whose screams awakened neighbors from their slumber. Heroically they broke down the front door as she stood trapped at her window, her hands extending through the metal security bars flailing wildly for help as her hair was already ablaze. Wendy’s injuries were extensive, and she spent weeks in the intensive care burn unit of U.C. San Diego Medical Center. Angel, the youngest son, 17, jumped out of a window and ran to a friend’s home four blocks away. He too spent time in the intensive care burn unit. It was a tough road for both Wendy and Angel without a doubt, and now they stood to speak to their brother.
What Did Wilber Romero Hear From His Siblings?
Yet during the sentencing there was nothing but love and support expressed by Wendy and Angel. “I just want to tell you we are here for you…We’re your family. We support you in everything,” said Wendy through a wavering voice and endless tears. “It doesn’t matter what happens, you just have to keep moving forward,” she continued.
Equally emotional, Angel said, “I just want to tell you brother that I am not remembering the past right now. I’m just thinking about the future of our family. We are working hard to just keep moving forward. You know I love you.” Wilber nodded his head and sobbed throughout.
Wilber’s aunt also spoke, pledging her unwavering support. “Whatever happens we will be at home waiting for you…Though your parents are no longer with us, or your sister, I am here for as long as God allows me to be here.”
Could Wilber Romero Have Been Helped Before It Was Too Late?
Following the emotional statements, Wilber’s attorney, Deputy Public Defender Neil Besse, told Judge So that Wilber Romero is grateful for his family’s support and is looking forward to a future where he can return to that. Besse then said, “This was a case involving a fire that killed family members. And whatever could be proven as to how the fire started, it’s always been Mr. Romero’s position – and we worked really hard to make it clear – that he loved his family, and he didn’t want his family to die.”
Judge So commended the lawyers on their “good work, sound judgment, and advocating on behalf of their client.” He said the settlement reached was a reasonable way to resolve the case, a “case that is just so sad,” he said with slow intonation.
After the court hearing had ended, outside in the court hallway, Besse told the media it was very difficult living in that house, and there was a lot of turmoil and trauma. When questioned for specifics, he stated he could not reveal any further information out of concerns for the privacy of the remaining siblings. He did state though, the system had failed Wilber and had missed chances to intervene.
This case has always been so tragic to me. At the preliminary hearing, it was revealed Wilber had set 12 fires and even talked of burning his house down with the family inside, but the family did not seek help for him as they did not wish to bring shame on their son or family. This raises the pressing questions: Can there be a time when no stigma exists in seeking psychology help for one in need? Can society be accepting of mental health treatment as freely as medical care for a physical ailment is embraced?
About Aleida K. Wahn, Esq.
I am an attorney, award-winning true crime writer, and legal analyst of criminal cases. I cover criminal trials and write stories and books about compelling, gripping, and unforgettable cases that impact our world. I take you into the courtroom in high-profile murder trials, rape cases, crimes of passion, cases involving mental illness, deviant behavior, and more. I have a deep passion for true crime, criminal law, and all aspects of the criminal justice system. I have appeared as an expert on true crime shows, including “48 Hours,” “Snapped,” and “The Dead Files,” and provided legal analysis on high-profile criminal trials on Court TV, the Law & Crime Trial Network, Fox 5 News, ABC 10 News, and KUSI News. I also create and host shows with the Del Mar Television Producers Group, addressing criminal justice and social issues in recent criminal trials.
I provided my insight and legal analysis on Court TV and the Law & Crime Trial Network of the high-profile trial of former NFL star Kellen Winslow Jr. It was a trial that captured the nation as the heralded ex-football star with fame, fortune, and a famous name stood accused of multiple rapes and other sex crimes involving five women. As the trial delved into shocking facts, complicated legal issues, and unexpected twists and turns, I was there for every minute. After the trial, I wrote a book on the case, going behind the headlines to share the extraordinary details of what happened inside the courtroom. Judging Winslow Jr.: From NFL Star to Serial Rapist? Inside the Shocking Rape Trial of Kellen Boswell Winslow II is now available on Amazon.
I am passionate about telling true crime stories, as these penetrating stories have the power to move us all, while highlighting societal issues which need to be addressed. I have personally seen the human devastation which is present in each trial and believe there is a lesson to be learned in every single case. It is through awareness and examining critical issues society can effect change and even make new laws. To learn more, please visit: https://www.aleidalaw.com.
Read about the gripping and unforgettable trials that I have covered in my latest books:
