Fire destroys legislator’s house

The ceiling and most of the roof structure is gone

NORTHEAST HOUSTON– An early morning fire, last Monday, June 4th, destroyed the Greenspoint area home of State Representative Kevin Bailey.
Bailey and his wife Marilyn were awakened about 3 a.m. by unusual noises and the smell of smoke, and they went through the house trying to find the source. As Mrs. Bailey approached the kitchen, the ceiling collapsed in front of her, and she could see the flames above in the attic space. Although the home had smoke detectors, they did not sense a fire in the attic, investigators said.
The Baileys immediately left the house, calling 9-1-1 as they went. After some delay explaining the street name, they awaited fire trucks. However, when the fire raged and the wait became extended, Mrs. Bailey drove to the Houston fire station nearby on Aldine-Bender. The trucks were just leaving, and they all returned to her house.

Firemen were unable to save much of the roof structure, and estimated that it had been burning for quite some time before the Baileys discovered it. The rest of the house below was ruined by water and smoke damage, and will have to be razed and rebuilt, according to Bailey.
Fire department investigators believe that the fire started in the aluminum wiring to an air conditioning unit in the attic. This type of wire material was common when this house was built about 20 years ago, and is known to overheat at times. Baileys said the a/c had been acting erratically recently, and they had planned a service call.
Although the Baileys escaped the house safely, most of their possessions were destroyed. Several cats were able to escape, but one is still missing.
Bailey issued a statement, saying “I am thankful for the quick response of our local firefighters and the continued support of friends and neighbors. The outpouring of concern from the community is appreciated during this stressful time.”
Bailey has lived in this home in the Imperial Valley subdivision since 1988. He serves as a state representative for District 140.