Man Killed in Texas House Fire

April 7, 2008
An early-morning fire killed one man and left the community asking questions.

CLINT, Texas --

An early-morning fire killed one man and left the community asking questions.

Around 5 a.m. Sunday, El Paso County sheriff's deputies were called to the home on 14913 Colonia Campo in Clint on reports of a car fire.

Clint volunteer firefighters were called out to the scene as the fire spread to the home on the property. As fire crews were putting out hot spots, they discovered the body of 63-year-old Roberto Ortiz. Neighbors said Ortiz lived by himself and sometimes used the stove to stay warm in the RV. They said he also smoked.

"We didn't know how bad it was. Upon arrival we saw the structure was fully engulfed," said Olivetti Lopez of the Clint Fire Department.

Mary Delgado has relatives in Clint. She said living in the area means living in fear.

"It brings fear. It brings uncertainty. Had they had the emergency assistance maybe it would have saved someone's life," she said.

She said Clint isn't getting the attention it needs and Ortiz's death leaves residents asking questions.

"I think they are scared for their lives. They are confused they don't know what is going to happen. A man lost his life, who are you going to turn to? He lost his life. What's next?" she asked.

El Paso fire investigators are trying to figure out what caused the fire.

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