HOUSTON — A 38-year-old woman is now charged with murder in the death of a Houston firefighter, court records show. She is also charged with arson.
Court documents claim Yesenia Espinoza Mendez set a fire at a warehouse in Houston’s East End on November 6 that quickly grew and ultimately led to the death of firefighter Marcelo Garcia. Another firefighter was hurt trying to put out the fire.
The Houston Fire Department said Garcia was killed when a wall fell while he was battling the fire.
According to court documents, Houston METRO police identified Espinoza as the suspect using facial recognition software after surveillance video showed her leaving the scene and getting onto a METRO train. She was arrested on November 9.
“They discovered surveillance videos nearby which showed that the defendant was the only one who had access to that warehouse at the time and that she had dropped a red lighter nearby,” said Assistant District Attorney Keegan Childers.
Prior to the murder charge, Espinoza had been granted a $100,000 surety bond.
Espinoza is a mother of six. Her family told KHOU 11 News she’s had a tough life, suffering from mental health issues such as depression.
Records show Espinoza is due back in court Monday.
Remembering firefighter Marcelo Garcia
After his death, firefighters at Fire Station 23 took time to remember Garcia. The station is where he spent six years working and is in the community where he grew up and ultimately died protecting.
“He was loved big time,” firefighter Abby Cortez said. “I mean immensely, he was loved.”
Cortez said his loss has devastated everyone who knew and loved him.
A 10-year veteran of HFD, Garcia was just 42 years old. Whether it’s his locker, his signature or his initials on the shift board, his presence is still felt inside Fire Station 23, something Cortez said they’ll cherish as they honor their HFD brother’s life and legacy.