White Settlement officers praised for heroic rescue after suspected arson led to motel fire
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White Settlement, TX - Police officers in White Settlement are being praised for their life-saving response after a fire broke out at a local motel early Monday morning.
The fire started around 5:25 a.m. at the Red Roof Inn while most guests were still asleep. According to White Settlement Police, Sgt. John Banner was on patrol when he noticed smoke and went to investigate. He arrived to find two motel rooms fully engulfed in flames.
Police say the fire was intentionally set by a man staying at the motel, who ignited his room and then ran outside to watch the flames from below.
Investigators have determined arson was the cause of the blaze.
The suspect, whose name has not been released, is currently being held at a hospital for mental health evaluation. Authorities say the incident appears to be related to a mental health crisis.
Banner and other officers immediately began kicking in doors and alerting guests to get out. Body camera footage released by the department shows dramatic moments of officers coughing through smoke, shouting for people to evacuate, and navigating falling debris.
At the rear of the building, one of the officers found a man asleep in his room with no knowledge of the fire. Officers say their efforts to wake up and evacuate guests began well before the fire department arrived.
“We were all just right here under the fire,” said motel guest Martin Juarez, who said he had no idea a fire was burning above him.
Guests described hearing loud bangs, breaking glass, and feeling the intense heat as officers helped them to safety. “You could feel the heat definitely… the plastic was falling on us,” Juarez said.
Officers Wesley Gregory and others rushed into smoky hallways and knocked on doors, working quickly to get everyone out before the flames could spread further.
“Between life and death... it’s very important. In a matter of seconds, it could’ve gone to more rooms and potentially lives could’ve been taken,” Gregory said.
No injuries or fatalities were reported. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
White Settlement Police Chief credited the officers’ quick response, saying their actions likely saved lives.
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