SOUTH HOUSTON – Close to 60 firefighters, eight fire trucks and three different fire departments is what it took to bring a fire under control Wednesday afternoon in the city of South Houston. But that's only after it consumed two homes and some cars, too.
Thick black smoke could be seen from Sky 2 on the scene.
South Houston Police Chief Herbert Gilbert said both houses were fully involved and firefighters initially had trouble getting water on the fire.
Neighbors reported hearing a series of small explosions at the time it started at around 2:45pm Wednesday at 309 Virginia Street. The owner told police he had several acetylene fuel tanks on property and that the tanks could be dangerous.
The fire quickly spread to the house right next door. That's where a married couple and their 5-month-old baby live.
"I was at work, got a call from my wife. She told me that our house was on fire. I was surprised and had to drive over here," said homeowner Alberto Vazquez. "I'm in shock. I can't believe everything is happening. Everything's gone."
His wife and baby got out OK. There were no reports of any injuries.
At least two houses, a garage and three vehicles were damaged.
Fire officials are investigating the cause of the blaze.