WASKOM, Texas - Two children died and their father was injured after a residential fire engulfed a home Tuesday morning, authorities said.
Harrison County Dispatch received reports around 10:14 a.m. on Dec. 30 of a possible structure fire with occupants trapped in the 300–400 block of Noble Street. As emergency units were en route, additional calls confirmed the residence was fully engulfed in flames.
Officers from the Waskom Police Department arrived and confirmed that two children were believed to be inside. The father sustained burn-related injuries while attempting to rescue his sons and was airlifted to a local hospital for treatment.
Precinct 1 Justice of the Peace John Oswalt pronounced the children deceased at the scene. They have been identified as 8-year-old Isaac Nicholas Pedraza and 11-year-old Hector Cesar Pedraza. Their remains were transported to the Southwest Institute of Forensic Sciences in Dallas for autopsy.
Harrison County Fire Marshal Jamie McConnell, with assistance from the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office, is leading the investigation. While the area of origin has been determined, the cause of the fire remains under investigation, and there is currently no evidence of foul play.
Sheriff Fletcher expressed condolences to the family and community, calling it a “heartbreaking and tragic loss of young lives.” Authorities thanked emergency personnel and community members for their response and support.
A donation account has been established at VeraBank to support the family. Contributions may be made to Elizabeth Olvera.
