An elderly male died Wednesday, Oct. 23 as the result of an apartment fire on West Mesquite in Dublin.
According to information released by the Dublin Police Department, at approximately 3:47 p.m. a 911 call occurred regarding a fire at the apartment complex. The caller reported that the apartment was engulfed in flames and that there was a possibility of an individual still inside.
The Dublin Volunteer Fire Department, Dublin Police Department, Dublin EMS, and Erath County Fire Rescue responded immediately to the scene. Upon arrival first responders found the apartment unit fully engulfed in flames. Despite the rapid intensity of the fire, crews were able to quickly halt its forward progression, preventing further spread to surrounding units.
As a result of the fire, Jackie Reed, 72, died.
While the fire was contained to a single unit, three additional apartments were rendered uninhabitable due to smoke and fire damage.
“All displaced residents have made arrangements for the evening, and we are actively working with them to provide further assistance. The Dublin Police Department will also be working closely with the property owner to assess the structural integrity of the building,” Police Chief Cameron Ray said the night of the fire.
The Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Fire Marshal’s Office from the Stephenville Fire Department are actively assisting the Dublin Police Department with this investigation. At this time, the investigation is ongoing, and no signs of foul play have been discovered.
The Dublin Police Department thanks the Dublin Volunteer Fire Department, Erath County Fire Rescue, the Stephenville Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Office, and the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office for their response and assistance in this investigation.
“This is a tragic situation, and our thoughts and condolences are with the Reed family during this difficult time. We will also do everything we can to help the displaced residents and get them back in their homes as soon as possible,” Ray said.