DeSoto fire officials said a couple, identified as 96-year-old James Alan Martin and 89-year-old Joyce Buenger, died in the blaze.
DESOTO, Texas — Officials have released the cause of a fire that resulted in the deaths of an elderly couple last month.
On Dec. 17, the DeSoto Fire Department (DFD) said crews responded to a fully engulfed home on Canyon Ridge Drive around 2:30 p.m. and found the home unsafe to enter. Witnesses described the fire as “very violent” to WFAA at the time.
In a news release, DFD said a couple identified as 96-year-old James Alan Martin and 89-year-old Joyce Buenger, died in the blaze.
For years, neighbors had been assisting the couple when needed. They told WFAA that the couple had multiple caregivers including Lacey Cabrales, who had provided care to the couple just two hours before the fire began.
“They were good people. My kids loved them.” said Cabrales.“It makes me sad, but at least they were together.”
According to the DeSoto Fire Marshal’s Office, the fire was caused by an electrical shortage in the attic, which led to short circuits and exposed wires, ultimately igniting the fire.
The blaze quickly made its way through the attic and eventually vented through the roof, causing portions of the ceiling to collapse into the den and living rooms, DFD said.
The fire has been classified as accidental, the news release states.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the Martins. Let us honor their memory by committing to fire safety and working together as a community to ensure the well-being of all our residents,” said Fire Chief Bryan Southard.