Local News
Houston firefighter Marcelo Garcia dies battling warehouse fire in Greater East End
Another firefighter was also injured in the collapse but is expected to recover.
The Houston Fire Department (HFD) is grieving the loss of one of its dedicated firefighters, Marcelo Garcia, 42, who tragically lost his life while combating a three-alarm warehouse fire in Houston’s Greater East End on Wednesday night.
Garcia, a respected 10-year veteran stationed at Station 23, was killed when a wall collapsed as crews fought the intense blaze.
Another firefighter was also injured in the collapse but is expected to recover.
The emergency began shortly before 11 p.m. as firefighters responded to reports of a fire at a warehouse located on Supply Row, near Polk Street, just west of Highway 90.
The fire rapidly intensified, prompting officials to call a second alarm at 11:04 p.m. Shortly after, amid the growing danger, a mayday alert was issued due to the wall collapse, leading to a third alarm as reinforcements rushed to the scene.
Garcia and his injured colleague were quickly transported to Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Texas Medical Center.
HFD Chief Thomas Muñoz noted that Critical Incident Stress Management teams have been activated to support the firefighting team affected by the tragedy and to offer assistance to Garcia’s family.
Chief Muñoz issued a heartfelt statement, “We ask the City of Houston to keep the Garcia family and the Houston Fire Department in your prayers as we mourn our brother.”
Houston Mayor John Whitmire also expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting the tremendous sacrifice made by first responders.
“This is the hardest part of my role as mayor of this great city – to respond to a tragedy involving one of our first responders, one of our heroes,” he said. “On behalf of the citizens of Houston, I offer my deepest condolences to the Garcia family.”
As HFD, the city, and Garcia’s loved ones cope with the loss, his bravery and dedication to protecting Houston will be honored and remembered.
The investigation into the cause of the fire and collapse is ongoing, and updates will be provided as they emerge.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.