DALLAS, Texas — A family lost its home, pets and nearly three decades of memories after a domestic crisis ended in a fire and a fatal shooting at their Oak Cliff residence last week.
Authorities said the woman’s husband barricaded himself inside the home after she called 911 early Tuesday to report his erratic behavior. Police and SWAT officers responded, and firefighters arrived as smoke rose from the residence.
Authorities said the man set the home on fire before taking his own life.
Laura Rios escaped with her daughter, Idaly, after waking her moments before they fled the burning house. Idaly said her mother’s quick decision likely saved her life.
“She just woke me up and we left,” Idaly said.
When asked whether she believed her mother saved her life, Idaly said, “Yes. Yeah, because what if he didn’t know I was in my other room?”
Idaly said she left the house wearing only the clothes she had on and carrying her keys. The family initially thought they would return after the emergency ended, but the fire destroyed much of the home.
The Rios family had lived in the house for nearly 30 years.
Inside the damaged residence, remnants of the family’s daily life remain, including belts hanging in a closet, boots on the floor and charred furniture.
“Well, that’s my bed, my closet, my little vanity with the drawers,” Idaly said as she pointed toward what remained of her bedroom.
The family also lost its 15-year-old dog and pet rabbit, which remained inside when the family fled.
“We had left our dog and bunny,” Idaly said through tears. “So we lost them too.”
Idaly later pointed out the area where she said the fire began.
“This was my room, and this one was my mom’s room where the fire started,” she said.
The family said the fire destroyed most of their belongings and left them without a home.
“We couldn’t get nothing,” Idaly said. “It was all … it was a disaster.”
A fundraiser now supports the family as they work to rebuild. The Rios family thanked donors, including many who contributed through the family members’ workplaces.
