2-Alarm Vacant Strip Center Fire in The Greater Uptown Area

WHAT: 2-Alarm vacant structure fire.
WHEN: February 1, 2025, at 12:48 a.m.
WHERE: 6502 Westheimer Rd. 77057.
INJURIES: One firefighter suffered burn and was treated on scene.
PROPERTY SAVED: Not available.
DAMAGE: $1,000,000 in estimated damage.
CAUSE: HFD Arson investigators determined the fire was intentionally set with second degree felony arson charges accepted by the District Attorney.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Firefighters arrived on scene to find fire and heavy smoke coming a vacant strip center. They made an attack on the fire and conducted a primary search in which several individuals were found and safely assisted outside the building. A second alarm was requested, and the fire was controlled within about 30 minutes of HFDs arrival. One firefighter suffered a burn and was treated on scene and remained on duty. The Houston Police Department was requested and detained a suspect. HFD Arson investigators responded and determined the fire was intentionally set with charges presented to and accepted by the District Attorney for second degree felony arson. 82 personnel responded to this incident, including crews from Stations 28, 16, 2, 5, 68, 83, 3, 10, 37, 38, 51, 60, 69, 57, 33, Heavy Rescue 11, Rescue 10, and Rehab 17 and 42.