Church Fire Investigation: Person of Interest Sought After Blaze Destroys Vacant Complex

Church Complex Fire Under Investigation

• 🔥 A massive fire destroyed all three buildings at a vacant church complex located off I-45 near Tidwell.
• 🚒 At the height of the blaze, 100 crew members responded to combat the flames.

Evidence of Squatters and Homeless Population

• 🏠 Investigators believe squatters had been staying at the property.
• ⚠️ Neighbors noted that vacant properties in the area, often used by the homeless, can draw issues.

TXDOT Property and I-45 Expansion

• 🚧 The property, purchased by TXDOT in 2020 for the future I-45 expansion project, was vacant and scheduled for demolition.
• 🗣️ Mayor Whitmer criticized TXDOT for failing to adequately secure its property, calling the fire a "wakeup call."
• 💬 TXDOT stated the property was secured and that the fire was not due to a lack of security.

Community Concerns and Outcome

• 🗑️ Mayor Whitmer also raised concerns about how abandoned properties, with blocked culverts due to trash, impact drainage.
• ✅ Fortunately, no one was hurt in the significant fire.
• 🔍 Authorities are searching for a person of interest seen in the area who may be responsible for starting the fire.