Officials identify children killed in house fire

WASKOM — The two children killed in a Waskom house fire have been identified by Harrison County officials as brothers Isaac Nicholas Pedraza, 8, and Hector Cesar Pedraza, 11.

On Dec. 30, Harrison County emergency units responded to a call of a residential structure fully engulfed in flames with possible occupants trapped in the 300 to 400 block of Noble Street in Waskom. Officers arrived on the scene and immediately requested for additional emergency resources, confirming the structure was fully involved and that two children were believed to still be inside the residence.

According to our news partner KETK and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, the father of the children sustained injuries while attempting to rescue his sons and was later transported by air to a local hospital where he received treatment for his burns.

County officials pronounced the two children as deceased at the scene and have since been transported to the Southwest Institute of Forensic Sciences in Dallas for autopsy.
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Harrison County Fire Marshal Jamie McConnell is leading an investigation into the fire with assistance from the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office.

According to McConnell, the area of origin of the fire has been determined, but the cause will require further investigation. A K-9 investigation unit is utilizing an ignitable liquid detection canine to assist.

There is no evidence to suggest foul play at this time, the sheriff’s office said.

“This is a heartbreaking and tragic loss of young lives,” Harrison County Sheriff Brandon Fletcher said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with this family as they endure an unimaginable loss, and with a community that is grieving alongside them.”

Following the fire and the death of Isaac and Hector, who were students at Waskom ISD, the school district released a statement on Tuesday offering its condolences.

“Our entire school community is grieving this tremendous loss and our hearts are with their families, friends and all who knew and loved them,” Waskom ISD Superintendent Chris Guastella said.

School counselors and support staff will be available for students upon their return to school and families are encouraged to reach out to Waskom ISD if additional support is needed.

“We recognize that this news is deeply upsetting,” Guastella said. “Grief affects everyone differently and both students and adults may experience a wide range of emotions. Please know that you are not alone and support is available.”