Woman arrested after fire at home for people with disabilities in southwest Harris County

Danielle Padgette, 25 (KPRC 2)

HOUSTON – A woman has been arrested for intentionally starting a fire at a home for people with disabilities in southwest Harris County Tuesday, fire marshals said.

Harris County investigators said Danielle Padgette, 25, told them that she set fire to a mattress using a cigarette lighter.

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Officials said the fire broke out at a home located in the 14000 block of Berrington Drive around 9:40 p.m.

When volunteer firefighters arrived at the scene, investigators said heavy flames were coming out of the bedroom on the first story at the front of the house. Officials said there were also flames in the hallway and in the attic.

Firefighters said they were able to contain the fire in 15 to 20 minutes. At least three people in the home made it out safely, firefighters said. According to investigators, multiple people with disabilities live at the home with a caretaker.

Investigators said Padgette was a new resident who arrived that day. She told investigators she was angry and did not want to live there.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.


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