Houston condo fire: Charger overheating leads to the death of three young girls
Houston - A devastating fire erupted in a condo complex in southwest Houston on Sunday, resulting in the loss of three lives. The Houston Fire Department (HFD) responded in approximately 4 minutes to the emergency call at 8110 Albacore, arriving on the scene shortly after 5:48 a.m.
According to the family, the fire claimed the lives of three young girls: 15-year-old Evelin, 12-year-old Yulisa, and 9-year-old Anita.
"I have no words to explain the pain I feel. It’s just too big," said Meybis Evelyn Zelaya, the victims' mother.
The victim’s mother said she left for work and a neighbor called her telling her that her condominium was on fire.
"My daughters were happy, intelligent, beautiful and pretty. They were great girls," said Zelaya.
HFD says a 21-year-old man managed to escape the fire. In an attempt to rescue others, the young man attempted to re-enter the burning building but was eventually transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of minor injuries and smoke inhalation.
The fire was contained to a single unit within the complex, preventing further destruction and potential casualties.
"All my neighbors knew my daughters. They are intelligent and pretty. I love them. I will always miss them. I know they are in heaven," said Zelaya.
Zelaya says authorities found that a charger overheating led to the fire, and may have started in the newsroom.