5 Rescued from Arson Fire During Fourth of July Celebrations

Fire Department Response to Arson Incident

• 🚒 Engine 51 was initially dispatched to an assault call at 6601 Dunlap, which was later upgraded to a fire call upon discovery of flames.
• 📍 The fire was located at 6650 Dunlap, a different address within the same complex, involving three-story apartment buildings with heavy smoke and fire.

Extraordinary Rescues and Transportations

• 👏 Ladder 51 and District 28 made five rescues, pulling four individuals from the burning structure.
• 🏃 One person jumped from a balcony and received immediate ambulance attention.
• 🏥 A 13-year-old and their mother sustained burns and were transported to Texas Children Hospital.
• 🔥 The suspect, also badly burned, was transported to Herman hospital under police escort.
• ✅ No firefighters were injured during the operation.

Challenges and Fire Suppression

• 🚧 Crews faced delays in establishing a water supply due to the need to secure a hydrant across the busy Bair Street.
• 💧 Once the water supply was established, crews efficiently attacked and extinguished the fire.
• 👨‍🚒 Firefighters made critical judgment calls to prioritize attacking the fire and saving the building and other residents.

Public Safety Message Amidst Celebrations

• 🎆 The incident occurred during Fourth of July celebrations, with active fireworks in the surrounding area.
• 📢 The public is urged to report illegal fireworks and to secure flammable items around their homes.
• ⚠️ Citizens are advised to stay inside and out of harm's way during celebrations due to the increased risk of fires, including arson.
• 🌃 The fire department is working through the night to address fires across the city, with this building fire involving an arsonist being a notable event.