Today the Houston Fire Department battled a 5-alarm fire at the Southwest Inn located on U.S. 59.  Sadly, four firefighters died as a result of this fire. Three of the firefighters died on scene while a forth died at the hospital. There were also a number of firefighters injured during the fire. It was reported that the fire broke out just after noon and more than 100 firefighters were on scene.

The Southwest Inn is a large commercial building that includes a motel, restaurant and club. The inn is located on a very busy expressway. It was reported that there was a roof collapse during the course of the fire. Official causes of the fire and fire deaths have not been released.

"This is an extremely sad day for Houston, their fire department and fire service personnel across the nation. Our hearts go out to the firefighters and families of the Houston Fire Department."  -Portland Fire & Rescue Fire Chief Erin Janssens

Contact info, for media use only:
Public Information Officer AJ Schaffer, Media Pager (503) 940-6003