Crime
Yesenia Mendez charged with arson in connection with fire that killed Houston Firefighter Marcelo Garcia
Yesenia Mendez, 38, has been charged with first-degree arson in connection with a fire that tragically claimed the life of Houston Fire Department Firefighter Marcelo “Ox” Garcia III on November 6, 2024.
Following the issuance of an arrest warrant, Mendez was apprehended by Houston Police Department officers with the support of Precinct 6 officers earlier today.
Authorities report that Mendez is believed to have deliberately ignited the fire at 6536 Supply Row, where Firefighter Garcia was killed in the line of duty after a wall collapsed during the intense 3-alarm blaze.
Over 100 firefighters responded to the incident, which HFD Arson Bureau investigators have since determined was intentionally set.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office are actively contributing to this ongoing investigation.
In a statement, Fire Chief Thomas Muรฑoz expressed appreciation for the collaboration of local and federal agencies, including HFD Arson, Houston Police Department, and METRO Police, which has been crucial in bringing forth the charges.
“This charge is a critical first step in a long journey of healing for the firefighters of Houston,” Chief Muรฑoz remarked, underscoring the profound impact of Garcia’s death on the fire department and the community. Funeral arrangements for Firefighter Marcelo Garcia are forthcoming as the Houston Fire Department and Garcia’s family, friends, and colleagues mourn his loss.
The community remains hopeful that justice will be served for Garcia and his family during this challenging time.
Christian County, Mo. โ Authorities have identified the suspect accused of fatally shooting a deputy with the Christian County Sheriff’s Office during a traffic stop as Richard Bird.
At the time the Blue Alert was issued, the suspect had not yet been taken into custody.
According to law enforcement officials, the deputy initiated a traffic stop involving a 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck along State Highway 160 near Highlandville.
During the stop, the suspect allegedly opened fire, fatally wounding the deputy before fleeing the scene.
The suspect was reported to have traveled southbound on Highway 160 following the shooting.
Authorities described the suspect vehicle as a black 2001 Chevrolet extended cab pickup truck equipped with a silver brush guard, black body trim, tinted rear windows, and a three-ball trailer hitch. The vehicle was bearing Missouri license plate 9MG-X36.
A statewide Blue Alert was issued to notify the public and assist in locating the suspect.
Law enforcement officials urged residents not to approach the vehicle or suspect if located, but instead to immediately call 911 and provide detailed information while remaining at a safe distance.
Christian County is situated south of Springfield and north of Branson, an area that sees significant travel due to its proximity to the Ozarks.
Multiple agencies across the region coordinated efforts in response to the alert.
Authorities have not yet released further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting or the status of the investigation.
Law enforcement officials expressed their condolences to the deputyโs family, colleagues, and the community as they continue to pursue justice in the case.