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 Muñoz 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 Muñoz 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.
Crime
18-year-old Timothy Haynes killed in North Charleston shooting
His mother was found performing CPR on him, and officers detected a faint pulse.
The Charleston County Coroner’s Office has identified the victim of a fatal shooting that occurred late Sunday night in North Charleston.
Timothy Haynes, 18, was pronounced dead at approximately 11:54 p.m. at the scene of the incident on Wales Court, according to Charleston County Coroner Bobbi Jo O’Neal.
The cause of death has been confirmed as a gunshot wound.
North Charleston Police responded to a call reporting gunfire and an unresponsive individual in the 4200 block of Wales Court. Upon arrival, officers discovered Haynes lying on the ground.
His mother was found performing CPR on him, and officers detected a faint pulse.
They continued life-saving measures until paramedics arrived, but Haynes succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Authorities canvassed the area, seeking video surveillance and witnesses to gather further information.
The North Charleston Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Police are urging anyone with information related to the incident to contact the North Charleston Police Tip Line at 843-607-2076.
This is an ongoing investigation, and further updates will be provided as more details emerge.