Houston, TX – A fire that broke out at a strip center in the University Place area on July 14, 2023, led to estimated damages worth $1 million and sent one firefighter to the hospital due to potential heat exhaustion.
The incident occurred around 9:03 p.m. at the Beautique Day Spa & Salon located at the junction of 5499 Kevlin Dr. and Times Blvd. Firefighters from the Houston Fire Department were on the scene within a minute of the distress call and immediately embarked on an offensive attack.
Upon arrival, the firefighters found the two-story strip center engulfed in smoke. A primary search was quickly undertaken, and the building’s utilities were swiftly secured. The fire, originating from a laundry room, was rapidly controlled.
Despite the significant damages, the firefighters successfully saved property worth an estimated $3 million from being destroyed by the fire. However, one firefighter had to be transported to a local hospital due to symptoms of potential heat exhaustion.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. The HFD Arson investigators have been brought in to determine the cause and origin of the fire. The response to this incident was a coordinated effort involving 54 personnel, which included crews from Stations 37, 16, 2, 8, 21, 3, 7, 17, 33, 24, and Rehab.
More updates on this incident will follow as the investigation progresses.
