By Mary Alys Cherry
Two League City women suffered burns in two different fires – one a home and the other an apartment complex — that left 17 families temporarily homeless.
League City Fire Marshal Tommy Cones, who is investigating both blazes, said the first fire was in the 2100 block of Leisure Lane about 4:30 p.m. Oct. 14. The homeowner reported smelling smoke while in the kitchen and heard her dog barking in the back bedroom. When she went to investigate, she saw heavy fire and smoke inside. She immediately called 911 and attempted to extinguish the blaze but was unsuccessful.
On arrival, the League City Fire Department found the two-story house engulfed in flames, Cones said. The homeowner and another female occupant, as well as the dog, all made it out safely. The other female occupant, who was treated by League City EMS for minor injuries along with burns to her hands and face, said a candle was left burning in the bedroom.
Sixteen families living in the Constellation Apartments and Marina at 451 Constellation Boulevard in League City had to be evacuated and were unable to return to their homes after a fire that started about 9:07 p.m. Oct. 16.
The tenant of the apartment where the fire originated told firefighters that after placing a container on the stove filled with grease to cook her evening meal she left the container unattended while she returned to her bedroom and after a short time smelled smoke. She attempted to turn the power off to the stove but was unsuccessful. She received second degree burns to her arms and shoulder and was transported to Clear Lake Hospital by paramedics from the League City Emergency Medical Services.
On arrival, League City and Webster firefighters reported heavy smoke coming from the apartment and attic. Crews entered the upstairs apartment and immediately extinguished the blaze, but due to the rapid extension of the flames remained on the scene for several hours.
Approximately 40 firefighters fought the blaze. Anyone with questions should contact Fire Marshal Tommy Cones at 281-554-1291.
