Saturday

11-10-2025 Vol 19

City of Houston to test hydrant failure during Third Ward-area apartment fire that injured 2, HFD says


HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — The City of Houston says it will continue testing a Third Ward fire hydrant after it malfunctioned during an apartment fire Sunday night.

The blaze broke out in the 3700 block of Tuam at about 11:15 p.m., according to the Houston Fire Department.

“We had a problem with the water supply,” Asst. Chief Justin Wells said. “The closest hydrant was dry, so that delayed water supply.”

HFD said two people were injured as a result of the fire in the four-unit apartment building, including the occupant of an upstairs unit where they believe the fire originated.

The department’s arson division is investigating the cause of the fire, but a spokesperson with HFD told ABC13 he doesn’t know if any charges are forthcoming.

That spokesperson also said it is believed the fire started as a result of someone carelessly discarding smoking materials.

Third Ward residents who live near the scene described waking up and seeing their street lined with fire trucks and emergency vehicles Sunday night.

Vernetta Moseley is one of those residents, and reacted to the news that the hydrant closest to the fire didn’t work when it was needed the most.

“We didn’t know the fire hydrant didn’t work,” she said. “I’m upset.”

The City of Houston told ABC13 that the hydrant exhibited “good pressure” during a test earlier Monday.

However, when a crew from HFD stopped by to test it later in the afternoon, they said the hydrant’s pressure was not in good standing.

The city says it plans to run additional tests on the hydrant in question throughout this week.

HFD told ABC13 its guidelines require hydrants in the city to be tested once per year.

They told us this one had no issues when it was tested in January.

In the meantime, Elimur Jordan, who lives in the impacted complex, said he’s simply taking everything in stride.

“I give my life to the lord,” Jordan said. “I don’t get too upset.”

For news updates, follow Chaz Miller on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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Niko Travis

Niko Travis is a dedicated health writer with a passion for providing clear, reliable, and research-backed information about medications and mental health. As the author behind TrazodoneSUC, Niko simplifies complex medical topics to help readers understand the benefits, uses, and potential risks of Trazodone. With a commitment to accuracy and well-being, Niko ensures that every article empowers readers to make informed decisions about their health.

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