House Fire Turns Violent in Cleveland, Texas: Firefighters Face Gunfire

In the early hours of Friday morning, November 24, 2023, Cleveland Fire responded to a distress call reporting a house fire at 275 County Road 3313 near Cleveland. Upon arrival, firefighters found a two-story home fully engulfed in flames. Due to the intensity of the fire, assistance was requested from East and North Montgomery County Fire Departments, as well as Plum Grove and Tarkington.

The structure, constructed with cinder block, presented a challenge for firefighters as walls began to collapse, preventing them from entering the building. Approximately an hour into battling the blaze, the homeowner arrived at the scene. Tensions escalated quickly when a confrontation broke out between the homeowner’s brother, residing across the street. Moments later, gunfire erupted, prompting firefighters to take cover under firetrucks and any available shelter.

Multiple units from the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office swiftly responded, attempting to apprehend the shooter, but were unsuccessful in locating them. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries during the incident. As dawn broke, firefighters continued their efforts to address hot spots and ensure the situation was fully under control. The investigation into the cause of the fire and the violent altercation is ongoing.