HOUSTON -- A two-alarm fire burned part of what was left of the historic Jefferson Davis Hospital near downtown Houston early Thursday.
The fire was reported on Elder Street at Girard Street around 2 a.m., according to the Houston Fire Department.
One firefighter was sent to the hospital in stable condition after a falling piece of tile hit him.
Records show the building was built on a 19th century cemetery, and itlater became a probation office once the hospital moved out.
This building dates back to the twenties, said HFD Chief Jay Evans. If I had to say, this was probably where medicine started in Houston and Harris County. Now it s progressed to what we know as the Texas Medical Center. The fire was all on the third floor and in the attic. We began ladder pipe operations. Within about 15 minutes we had the fire under control.
The property, which is an official state landmark,was previouslylisted for sale by the City of Houston.
Arson investigators said they would look over the damage for any clues as to what started the fire.
