BASTROP, Texas — A family of six has been left picking up the pieces after their home was left charred inside and out.
The Mouse Fire broke out just after 3 p.m. on Saturday in Bastrop County. Officials said strong winds blew embers into the neighborhoods and started multiple small fires. Two streets and several homes had to be evacuated.
Gloria Martinez, a mother of six, said she has lived in her home for two years. after moving from Austin because they loved nature and wanted a change of scenery.
Martinez said she was preparing lunch at home with her two oldest sons when a neighbor called about a fire near their home. After walking outside, Martinez said the fire started small but quickly grew from their yard to their home.
Using a hose and a fire extinguisher, Martinez said she tried everything to stop it.
“For me, it was an eternity,” Martinez said. “But I think it was about five minutes later, the firefighters came. While they got here, I tried everything I could.”
Homeowner Jose Najera said he was not there when the fire started but was shocked to see the aftermath.
“Working for 30 years … and I came back three hours later. Everything is burned,” Najera said. “But the good thing is everybody is safe.”
The family said they left their home with minor injuries and the clothes on their backs. However, they lost three cats who were hiding in the home.
Martinez said they hosted every holiday at their home and loved to watch her children play. Now, she said it all memories.
The family plans to build a mini home on the property until they can restore what they lost. They also set up a GoFundMe for anybody who wants to help support them during this time.