A fire at the Harris County Criminal Justice Center in Downtown Houston led to an evacuation this morning. Smoke emerged from a small source—a jury room on the building's 18th floor—forcing the evacuation of nearby levels, according to FOX 26 Houston. Harris County Pct. 1 Constable Alan Rosen confirmed the incident, describing the fire as minor, but the smoke was significant enough to require the evacuation of several floors.
A number of Houston Fire Department trucks and emergency vehicles quickly responded to the scene, positioning themselves outside the courthouse. According to Constable Rosen, the fire began when jurors, while having a meal, accidentally ignited napkins, causing the small blaze that led to the evacuation of several floors. The incident disrupted proceedings, prompting a swift response from authorities and emergency personnel.
The courthouse, located on Franklin Street between San Jacinto and Austin streets, was cordoned off by authorities, who advised the public to avoid the area.
The 17th, 18th, and 19th floors were quickly cleared and deemed secure once the fire was extinguished and the smoke dissipated. According to KHOU, no injuries were reported.
