HOUSTON – A fire tore through an apartment complex in Houston’s Galleria area on Thanksgiving afternoon, displacing residents and prompting a swift response from the Houston Fire Department.
“We received multiple calls about an apartment fire,” said HFD District Chief Mo Davis. “Several callers reported multiple units involved. When Engine 60 arrived, they found four units fully engulfed in flames.”
The fire was reported around 3:40 p.m. in the 2300 block of Lazy Hollow Drive. Firefighters arrived on the scene within three minutes and launched an offensive attack.
Ladder 28 provided ventilation by cutting through the roof, while additional crews conducted searches for potential occupants.
“Thankfully, no one was found inside,” Davis said. “We conducted a primary and secondary search to ensure no one was missed. Despite the heavy flames and zero visibility, the crews did a great job handling this quickly.”
Residents reported witnessing the fire’s rapid spread. Lucas Castro, who lives in the complex, said he was outside when the fire broke out.
“I saw flames coming out, and everyone started running,” Castro said. “It destroyed everything, but thankfully, no one was hurt. We lost everything, but we’re alive, and that’s what matters.”
The fire department has called in arson investigators after reports suggested the fire might have been intentionally set.
“We received reports from dispatch that someone may have started the fire,” Davis said. “Arson is investigating, and there’s supposedly video footage that might help us determine what happened.”
Among those affected was Barbara Rios, whose two cats were rescued by firefighters.
“I was scared and didn’t have time to get them out,” Rios said. “I’m so thankful to the firefighters for saving my cats. It’s Thanksgiving, and I’m grateful for that.”
The fire was under control within 20 minutes of the initial response, according to Davis. The cause remains under investigation.
No injuries were reported.
Fire officials reminded residents to prioritize safety and to remain cautious during the holiday season, as colder weather often increases fire risks.
