Trending Topics

Criminal charges filed in line-of-duty death of Houston firefighter

Investigators have filed arson charges related to the death of Firefighter Marcelo Garcia during a warehouse fire

By Bill Carey
FireRescue1

HOUSTON — The Houston Fire Department announced on Nov. 9 that criminal charges have been filed in connection with the line-of-duty death of Houston Firefighter Marcelo Garcia, who was killed in a wall collapse while fighting a warehouse fire.

Yesenia Mendez, 38, is facing a first-degree arson charge. Investigators say Mendez started a fire that led to Garcia’s death, KHOU reported.


Firefighter Marcelo Garcia succumbed to injuries from a wall collapse during a warehouse fire

“This charge is the first step in a long healing process for the firefighters of this city,” Fire Chief Thomas Muñoz said.

Mendez is not currently in custody.

Funeral arrangements for Garcia are pending.

Trending
A Haynes Life Flight helicopter was approaching a landing zone in Autauga County when bullets struck the right-side window
Nearly a third of men aren’t exercising regularly, despite clear links to better mental health, sexual performance and energy levels — key concerns for firefighters under stress
Firefighter/Paramedic Scott fell ill while transporting a patient, was flown to Memorial Hermann–Texas Medical Center for surgery and later died
First responders recovering from a violent attack are best served by counselors with specific training and certification