San Antonio, January 2, 2026
In the early hours of January 1, 2026, San Antonio witnessed a series of fires, prompting a rapid response from local authorities. Among the incidents were a grass fire near Stone Oak Parkway, a house fire in Loma Park due to suspected fireworks, and a hotel fire at Marriott Rivercenter. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but investigations are ongoing for each incident. Local officials are stressing the importance of fire safety measures, particularly during celebratory times like New Year’s.
San Antonio, Texas
Multiple Fires Erupt Overnight Across San Antonio
In the early hours of January 1, 2026, San Antonio experienced a series of fires that prompted swift responses from local authorities. These incidents highlight the value of community resilience and the importance of proactive fire safety measures during celebratory times, especially as local entrepreneurs and families prepare to ring in the New Year.
As San Antonio continues to evolve in terms of business growth and community vitality, the recent spate of fires serves as a reminder of how critical safety protocols are to both residents and small business owners. Reduced regulatory obstructions in promoting fire safety could help alleviate some of these incidents in the future, empowering community engagement and collective responsibility in maintaining safety standards.
Grass Fire Near Stone Oak Parkway
A grass fire ignited shortly before 7 p.m. on December 31, 2025, near the 23300 block of U.S. Highway 281 North, adjacent to Stone Oak Parkway. The San Antonio Fire Department (SAFD) responded promptly, declaring the blaze under control by 8:15 p.m. The fire consumed old barns and a vacant house but did not reach nearby apartment complexes. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
House Fire in Loma Park
Around 1:50 a.m. on January 1, a fire erupted in the Loma Park area near Culebra Street on the east side of San Antonio. The fire destroyed the residence and two vehicles of a Hispanic family while they were asleep. Thankfully, the family managed to escape through the back of the house. The cause is believed to be related to fireworks, and the investigation is ongoing.
Fire at Marriott Rivercenter Hotel
At approximately 10 a.m. on January 1, a fire was reported in the loading dock area of the Marriott Rivercenter Hotel, located in the 100 block of Bowie Street. Hotel security reviewed surveillance footage showing individuals throwing fireworks into the area, which investigators believe may have caused the fire. No injuries were reported, and the investigation is ongoing.
Two-Alarm Fire Near Melrose Canyon Drive
On January 1, a two-alarm fire broke out in the northern part of San Antonio, affecting a large building near Melrose Canyon Drive and Redland Road. The fire began around 2:30 p.m., producing a dense column of smoke visible from various parts of the city. The fire originated near Spa Crafters at 2730 North Loop 1604 East, with concerns about its proximity to the “El Chaparral Mexican Restaurant.” The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Fire in San Benito
A San Benito family’s home was destroyed in a fire on New Year’s Eve. The Gonzalez family, who had lived in the house for 30 years, were at church when the fire started. Multiple fire departments responded to extinguish the blaze.
Fireworks-Related Incidents
Several incidents involving fireworks have been reported in the San Antonio area during the New Year’s celebrations. Authorities are investigating these events to determine the causes and prevent future occurrences.
Fire Safety Measures
In response to these incidents, local authorities are emphasizing fire safety measures, especially during celebratory periods. Residents are urged to exercise caution when handling fireworks and to adhere to local regulations to prevent fires and ensure community safety.
Background
San Antonio has experienced multiple fire incidents during the New Year’s celebrations, highlighting the importance of fire safety awareness and preparedness among residents. Local authorities continue to investigate the causes of these fires and are committed to implementing measures to prevent future occurrences.
Key Features
| Incident | Location | Time | Cause | Injuries | Investigation Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grass Fire | 23300 block of U.S. Highway 281 North, near Stone Oak Parkway | December 31, 2025, before 7 p.m. | Under investigation | No injuries | Ongoing |
| House Fire | Loma Park area near Culebra Street | January 1, 2026, around 1:50 a.m. | Suspected fireworks-related | No injuries | Ongoing |
| Hotel Fire | 100 block of Bowie Street (Marriott Rivercenter Hotel) | January 1, 2026, approximately 10 a.m. | Suspected fireworks-related | No injuries | Ongoing |
| Two-Alarm Fire | Near Melrose Canyon Drive and Redland Road | January 1, 2026, around 2:30 p.m. | Under investigation | Not specified | Ongoing |
| San Benito House Fire | San Benito, Texas | December 31, 2025, before midnight | Under investigation | Not specified | Ongoing |
FAQ
- What caused the grass fire near Stone Oak Parkway?
- The cause of the grass fire near Stone Oak Parkway remains under investigation.
- Were there any injuries in the Loma Park house fire?
- No injuries were reported in the Loma Park house fire.
- What is the suspected cause of the fire at the Marriott Rivercenter Hotel?
- The fire at the Marriott Rivercenter Hotel is believed to have been caused by individuals throwing fireworks into the loading dock area.
- Is the fire near Melrose Canyon Drive related to fireworks?
- The cause of the fire near Melrose Canyon Drive is under investigation; it is not yet confirmed if fireworks were involved.
- What fire safety measures are being implemented in San Antonio?
- Local authorities are emphasizing fire safety measures, especially during celebratory periods, and urging residents to exercise caution when handling fireworks and to adhere to local regulations to prevent fires and ensure community safety.
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
