HOUSTON — Criminal charges have been filed in the death of Houston firefighter Marcelo Garcia, the Houston Fire Department announced Saturday morning.
Yesenia Espinoza Mendez, 38, has been charged with arson-bodily injury or death, according to court records. She was taken into custody on Saturday.
Charging documents claim Espinoza lit materials in a warehouse that grew quickly. That fire ultimately led to Garcia's death and another firefighter being injured, the documents said.
HFD said a wall collapsed while Garcia was battling the fire in Houston's East End. Charging documents revealed that firefighters had to pull Garcia out from the rubble and were unable to resuscitate him.
Houston METRO police were able to identify Espinoza as a suspect through facial recognition software after surveillance video showed her leaving the scene and getting on a METRO train.
"They discovered surveillance videos nearby which showed that the defendant was the only one who had access to that warehouse at the time and that she had dropped a red lighter nearby," said Assistant District Attorney Keegan Childers.
On Saturday in probable cause court, a judge granted Espinoza a $100,000 surety bond.
Her defense attorney, Allen Otto, told reporters on Monday that he'll look at the evidence gathered so far to establish her defense.
"Miss Espinoza has not yet been tried in front of a court," Otto said. "Her story hasn't been heard in front of a jury, nor the judge."
Espinoza is a mother of six. Her family told KHOU 11 News she's had a tough life, suffering from mental health issues such as depression.
More than 100 firefighters responded to the three-alarm fire.
"This charge is the first step in a long healing process for the firefighters of this city," Fire Chief Thomas Muñoz said.
The investigation involves HFD's Arson Unit, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Texas State Marshal's Office.
"Based on what the officers have said and based on the videos, it does look to be a pretty concrete case," Otto said.
The motive for the fire has not yet been determined.
Espinoza's next court appearance is scheduled for January.
Remembering firefighter Marcelo Garcia
The news comes a day after firefighters took time to remember Garcia at Fire Station 23, where he spent six years working. It's also in the community where he grew up and ultimately died protecting.
"He was loved big time," firefighter Abby Cortez said. "I mean immensely, he was loved."
Cortez said his loss has devastated everyone who knew and loved him.
A 10-year veteran of HFD, Garcia was just 42 years old. Whether it's his locker, his signature or his initials on the shift board, his presence is still felt inside Fire Station 23, something Cortez said they'll cherish as they honor their HFD brother's life and legacy.
Funeral arrangements
A procession will be held on Nov. 10 at 9 a.m. It will begin at the medical examiner's office and end at the Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home.
A public viewing will be held Nov. 12 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home. A separate, private viewing will be held for Garcia's family and friends.
The public funeral service for Garcia will be Wednesday at 9 a.m. at the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart.
Mayor John Whitmire requests that Houstonians and neighbors, including those who commute to the city, turn on their vehicle headlights Wednesday to honor the fallen hero.