LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – A property owner is considering shutting down his mobile home park permanently after a fire destroyed several units in what he believes was caused by trespassers seeking shelter.
Jesse Flores arrived at his East Lubbock County property to survey the damage from flames that broke out late Monday night. Flores believes the fire may have started when someone illegally staying in one of the vacant mobile homes attempted to heat the space.
The fire occurred just before 10 p.m. along East County Road 72-60, off the Slaton Highway. Four fire departments worked several hours to contain the blaze, according to the Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office.
One resident managed to escape safely, and no injuries were reported. However, Flores said the incident highlighted dangerous possibilities that could have been much worse.
“Good thing nobody got hurt you know but what scares me is the gas lines just imagine getting one of those hot this whole place would of been an explosion,” Flores said.
Flores said the mobile homes were supposed to be vacant at the time of the fire. He has been dealing with repeated break-ins and trespassing incidents recently, making this fire the latest in a series of security issues.
The ongoing problems have left him feeling unsafe and considering drastic measures to protect the property.
“It’s very frustrating I’m 70 years old I had a nice birthday. I’m still happy about it but I don’t want nobody here. I’m going to talk to investigators. I told them last night we’re going to have gate put up and nobody can no longer be here,” he said.
Flores indicated he may permanently close the property due to safety concerns, citing theft, trespassing and now fire damage as factors in his decision.
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