Blaze claims Houston County mother, son

CROCKETT – A housefire that occurred last Tuesday in Crockett resulted in the deaths of a mother and son.

According to Crockett Fire Chief Jason Frizzell, firemen responded to a call of a structure fire at 105 McLean Drive at 5:31 a.m. When they arrived, the residence was “heavily involved in fire,” Frizzell said.

“We rapidly began a search of the interior, as well as an offensive attack, to extinguish the fire,” he added.

They discovered 44-year-old Shelly McDaniel and her son dead inside the residence. 

Crockett Fire Department was assisted on the blaze by the volunteer fire departments of Latexo, Lovelady as well as personnel from the Houston County Fire Marshal’s Office, Crockett Police Department and Houston County EMS.

There is no word on a possible cause for the blaze at present. The fire department has turned over the investigation to the State Fire Marshal’s Office due to the city fire marshal being out on medical leave.

Frizzell, on behalf of the fire department and the city offered condolences to the family. “Our prayers are with those affected by this tragic loss,” he said.

McDaniel, who was employed with Crockett Eye Clinic, was paid tribute to on Facebook by the clinic on its page. “Please keep their family and friends in your thoughts and prayers as they go through this difficult time,” a post read, and added that the staff is deeply saddened by her loss.