Man found dead following house fire in SW Houston

HOUSTON – The Houston Fire Department said a body was discovered inside a house that caught fire in southwest Houston.

The fire broke out just after 5 p.m. in the 12000 block of Millbanks Drive. Intense smoke filled the house.

Queidra Chaney lives right across from the engulfed home. She says she called 911 once she saw the heavy smoke and then yelled for help. 

“The neighbors were working hard to try to help. They were jumping gates, They were trying their best, but we never heard him respond,” said Chaney. 

Jesse Rodriguez was one of the neighbors who tried to help save the trapped resident.

“I touched the windows, and it was hot. It was dark and foggy inside,” said Rodriguez.

The Houston Fire Department says the man trapped inside his home likely died from smoke inhalation in his kitchen. 

“He was cooking something. He went to his bedroom and started eating, and forgot the stove on, and that's what started the fires,” said Houston Fire spokesperson Mario Gallegos.

The man, who lived with a roommate. was 68 years old. Chaney says the victim will be dearly missed in the neighborhood. 

“Just a beautiful man and helped all the neighbors. He was helping them get nice jobs. Just very helpful and very nice man. My heart is hurting. It's Christmas time too,” said Chaney.