WHAT: Duplex fire.
WHEN: January 24, 2024, at 3:13 p.m.
WHERE: 5600 block of Birchmont Dr. 77091.
INJURIES: No reported injuries.
PROPERTY SAVED: Not available.
DAMAGE: $180,000 in estimated damage.
CAUSE: Incendiary. Phillip Shelley (23) charged with Arson of a Habitation (HFD) and Burglary and Theft (HPD).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Firefighters arrived on scene within four minutes to find smoke coming from a 2-story duplex. They made an offensive attack and ventilated the roof. A primary search was completed, and the fire was extinguished. HFD Arson investigators were requested to determine the cause and origin of the fire.
Investigators responded to a request for a fire scene examination at the above-mentioned address and learned that Phillip Shelly (23) broke into a neighboring apartment unit and stole multiple firearms and cash – per the Houston Police Department. After the theft, Mr. Shelley then ignited materials at hand within the apartment unit in an attempt to conceal his crimes of burglary/theft.