DeSoto fire officials said a couple, identified as 96-year-old James Alan Martin and 89-year-old Joyce Buenger, died in the blaze.

Cause of Fatal Fire in DeSoto That Killed Elderly Couple Released

DE SOTO, Texas — Officials have determined the cause of the fire that claimed the lives of an elderly couple in DeSoto last month.

On December 17, the DeSoto Fire Department (DFD) responded to a fully engulfed home on Canyon Ridge Drive around 2:30 p.m. Crews found the structure unsafe to enter due to the intensity of the blaze. Witnesses described the fire as “very violent,” according to WFAA.

In a press release, DFD confirmed that the victims were 96-year-old James Alan Martin and 89-year-old Joyce Buenger, who both perished in the fire.

Neighbors had long been supportive of the couple, offering assistance when needed. Lacey Cabrales, one of the couple’s caregivers, had attended to them just two hours before the fire started. Cabrales shared her sorrow with WFAA: “They were good people. My kids loved them. It makes me sad, but at least they were together.”

Fire officials say they responded to the scene Tuesday afternoon. The DeSoto Fire Marshal’s Office later determined the fire was caused by an electrical short in the attic, which led to short circuits and exposed wires that ignited the blaze.

The fire spread rapidly through the attic, eventually venting through the roof and causing parts of the ceiling to collapse into the den and living rooms, according to DFD.

The fire has been classified as accidental.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the family of the Martins. Let us honor their memory by committing to fire safety and working together as a community to ensure the well-being of all our residents,” said Fire Chief Bryan Southard.