Two Weslaco firefighters have died, the Weslaco Police Department confirmed Wednesday morning, as city police and fire officials launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding their deaths.
What Police Have Confirmed So Far
According to KRGV, the Weslaco Police Department confirmed the deaths of two firefighters Wednesday morning. The city's police department and fire department are investigating an off-duty incident that occurred that same morning, as first reported by valleycentral.com.
Police have not released the identities of the firefighters or specifics about what happened. Officials said details about the incident will not be released at this time out of respect for the families, according to the same report.
Who Investigates Firefighter Deaths in Texas
In Texas, firefighter fatality investigations typically fall under a specific state authority. The State Fire Marshal's Office is responsible for investigating firefighter fatalities in the state, per the Texas Department of Insurance, State Fire Marshal's Office. That office steps in when a firefighter dies in the line of duty or when a death occurs in connection with an on-duty incident, with the State Fire Marshal tasked with investigating the circumstances surrounding the death, including any factors that may have contributed to it, the agency notes.
It remains unclear how the Weslaco investigation will proceed or what additional information authorities may release as it continues. Hoodline will update this story as officials share more.
