Vacaville, California – A Vacaville man has been convicted of murdering a woman and subsequently igniting a massive wildfire that devastated portions of Solano County, claiming the lives of two individuals. On Friday, prosecutors announced that Victor Serriteno pleaded no contest and was found guilty of multiple charges, including three counts of murder and arson to an inhabited dwelling. His sentencing is scheduled for August 14, with a maximum prison term of 73 years to life.
The tragic events began on August 16, 2020, when family members of 32-year-old Priscilla Castro reported her missing after being unable to contact her, a behavior that prompted concern due to her habit of staying connected with loved ones. Two days later, her vehicle was discovered abandoned in Vacaville.
Investigators traced Castro’s last communication to Serriteno, who, according to prosecutors, was uncooperative and deceptive during the inquiry. On the same day that Castro’s car was located, firefighters responded to a rapidly spreading blaze at Putah Creek Wildlife Area, which ultimately burned thousands of acres and destroyed numerous structures, affecting homes and livestock in the vicinity.
Amidst the destruction, two long-time Solano County residents, Douglas Mai and Leon Bone, perished in the fire, which intensified the tragedy surrounding the case. As investigators continued their search for Castro, they discovered human remains on September 2, 2020, in the same area where the fire had ignited. The remains were identified as Castro’s, with an angel pendant found nearby linking her to the site.
Authorities arrested Serriteno and charged him with Castro’s murder nine days after the remains were uncovered. Additional charges related to the wildfire, including two counts of murder and arson, were filed the following year.
During preliminary hearings, prosecutors outlined evidence indicating that Serriteno had killed Castro at his residence. They allege he later disposed of her remains in the wildlife area, deliberately placing her body near the fire’s origin.
As the case unfolds, Serriteno remains in custody, awaiting sentencing in a case that has drawn significant attention and concern from the community. The devastating impact of the fire, coupled with the loss of life, underscores the tragedy woven into this complex narrative of crime and loss.
Residents and families affected by the fire continue to grapple with the aftermath, while Serriteno faces a lengthy prison term for his actions, which have forever altered the lives of many in the region. The community remains vigilant, seeking justice for the victims and healing from the catastrophic events of that fateful summer.