Two Lives Lost in Tragic Overnight Texarkana House Fire

A tragic fire in Texarkana claimed two lives early Saturday morning.

According to the Texarkana, Texas Fire Department, crews were dispatched around midnight on Saturday, May 2 to a call about a reported structure fire in the 1800 block of West 7th Street. When firefighters arrived, they were met with heavy smoke and flames pouring from the home.

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A passerby told crews that someone had been seen in a second-story window, which prompted firefighters to immediately begin an aggressive interior attack along with search and rescue efforts. Despite their quick response, no one was found in that initial search area.

Conditions inside the home quickly worsened, with intense heat and rapidly spreading fire forcing crews to temporarily pull back. Firefighters continued battling the blaze from outside until it was safe to re-enter.

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During a later search, crews discovered two victims in the rear portion of the second floor. Both were pronounced dead at the scene.

The victims have been identified as 58-year-old Joel Wilson and 78-year-old Geannetta Wilson. Their next of kin have been notified.

Investigators with the Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire was caused by an electrical failure on the first floor.

The Texarkana Fire Department shared its condolences with the families and loved ones in this heartbreaking loss.