An elderly woman died Wednesday afternoon after a house fire in Manor that drew multiple emergency crews to the 200 block of West Wheeler Street. Firefighters pulled her from the home, and first responders attempted life-saving measures, but she was pronounced dead at 3:52 p.m.
Scene and Response
Officers with the Manor Police Department were dispatched around 3:09 p.m. after a caller reported black smoke coming from the building, according to KEYE/CBS Austin. Crews with Travis County Emergency Services District No. 12 arrived within minutes, worked to put out the fire, and removed the resident from the home. Officials have not released the victim’s identity.
Investigation
The Travis County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the blaze, and the county’s fire marshal contact page lists (512) 854-4621 for questions. Investigators are expected to examine the scene to determine where and how the fire started while coordinating with local ESD crews and law enforcement.
Why Older Residents Are More at Risk
Older adults face a significantly higher risk of dying in home fires. The U.S. Fire Administration reports that people 65 and older have roughly 2.5 times the risk of fire death compared with the general population. State and national fire authorities also note that working smoke alarms can cut the risk of a fatal home fire by about half, highlighting the need for tested detectors and clear escape plans for seniors.
How Neighbors Can Help
Neighbors and caretakers can lower the chances of another tragedy by confirming that smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms are installed and working, checking frequently on older residents, and reporting any safety concerns to local officials. For information about the investigation or to ask follow-up questions, contact the Travis County Fire Marshal's Office at (512) 854-4621. Manor Police handled the initial response at the scene.
