HOUSTON, Texas – The 38-year-old woman accused of starting the warehouse fire in Houston’s East End that left a firefighter is facing two new charges.
Yesenia Espinoza Mendez has since been charged with murder in connection to the death of 42-year-old firefighter Marcelo Garcia and arson -bodily injury in connection to injured firefighter Shane Cox. Mendez was previously only charged with first-degree arson.
What Happened?
On Nov. 6, firefighters with the Houston Fire Department responded to a warehouse fire, allegedly set intentionally by Mendez, on Supply Row near Polk Street.
While battling the large fire, authorities said a wall collapsed, injuring two firefighters -- Garcia and Cox. Garcia, unfortunately, died at the hospital while Cox suffered minor injuries and is expected to be okay.
Days after the deadly fire, Espinoza was taken into custody.
According to the Harris County court records, she has a lengthy criminal history dating back to 2009. Her previous charges include multiple assault charges involving partners, two DWIs, and a child endangerment charge.
HFD said its department hasn’t experienced the loss of one of its own while battling a fire since the 2013 Southwest Inn fire that killed several firefighters.