The City of New Braunfels Fire Marshal’s Office, following a diligent investigation into a reported arson, has made an arrest, highlighting the department’s commitment to public safety. According to a press release from the city's official website, the early morning hours of October 21 were disrupted by a peculiar disturbance on West Bridge Street when a resident awoke to a frightening scene. Outside, several bags filled with clothing had been set ablaze near a detached garage, threatening nearby structures.
Fortunately for those involved, the swift action of the homeowner, who extinguished the fire with a garden hose, prevented any injuries or significant property damage. Police officers, responding to the distress call around 3:30 am, escalated the matter to the Fire Marshal’s Office, which promptly began an inquiry to unravel the cause of the incident. Their investigation concluded that the fire had been intentionally lit. Progressing further, an arrest and a search warrant were both secured for the suspect.
In an operation marked by the collaboration of the New Braunfels Police Department’s SWAT Team, the arrest transpired without complication. On October 24, as detailed in the city’s press release, 36-year-old Gilbert Hernandez was taken into custody at his residence on South Grape Avenue.
Hernandez, now facing serious legal consequences, has been charged with Arson, a second degree felony. His bond has been set at $25,000. But this is not Hernandez’s sole encounter with the law, as an additional outstanding warrant for Assault of a Family Member/Household Member with Previous Conviction out of Comal County surfaced, which was served during the arrest. The broader implications of both the arson and the additional charges are yet unclear, as the investigation remains active with the potential for further developments.
