Arlington, Texas, January 15, 2026
A three-alarm fire occurred at the vacant former Carter Junior High School in Arlington, Texas, early Wednesday morning. Firefighters responded to the scene, where multiple fires were detected, raising suspicions of arson. The building, undergoing demolition to make way for a new junior high school, did not have any reported injuries. The Arlington Fire Department is investigating the incident, urging community vigilance against suspicious activity.
Arlington, Texas: Suspicious Three-Alarm Fire at Former Carter Junior High School
FAQ
- What caused the fire at the former Carter Junior High School?
- The cause of the fire is under investigation. Arlington fire officials have labeled the incident as suspicious due to the presence of multiple fires throughout the building. Arson investigators have been called to determine if the fires were intentionally set.
- Were there any injuries reported?
- No injuries were reported during the incident.
- What is the status of the former Carter Junior High School?
- The building was vacant and undergoing demolition at the time of the fire. It is being replaced by the new Joey Rodriguez Junior High School, currently under construction and scheduled to open in the fall of 2025.
- What is being done to prevent future incidents?
- The Arlington Fire Department is actively investigating the cause of the fire and is working to ensure the safety of the community. Authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activity to help prevent future incidents.
Details of the Incident
Early Wednesday morning, January 14, 2026, Arlington, Texas, experienced a significant emergency response as a three-alarm fire broke out at the former Carter Junior High School. Located at 701 Tharp Street, the building was vacant and in the process of demolition when firefighters were alerted to reports of smoke coming from the roof at approximately 12:04 a.m.. Upon arrival, multiple fires were detected on the second and third floors, leading the Arlington Fire Department to escalate the response to a three-alarm call.
The fire was officially declared under control at 1:29 a.m., about 85 minutes after the initial call for help. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during the incident, allowing first responders to focus on containing the fire and ensuring the safety of the surrounding area.
Investigation and Background
Arlington fire officials have classified the fire as suspicious due to the presence of multiple fires throughout the building. In response, arson investigators are currently examining the scene to determine whether the fires were set intentionally. It’s worth noting that the former Carter Junior High School, which opened in 1958, is being replaced by the new Joey Rodriguez Junior High School. This new facility is under construction and is expected to open in the fall of 2025.
Community Impact
This incident has heightened concerns within the community regarding the safety of vacant properties that are in the process of demolition. The Arlington Fire Department is not only investigating the cause of this blaze but is also proactively working to enhance safety measures to protect residents and ensure properties undergoing similar transitions do not pose risks.
Related Incidents
This fire follows a troubling trend in Arlington, where a series of suspicious fires have occurred at vacant properties. Local authorities are encouraging residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help curb potential future incidents. Community involvement is integral to maintaining safety and ensuring that businesses can thrive in a secure environment.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Former Carter Junior High School, 701 Tharp Street, Arlington, Texas |
| Time of Incident | Early Wednesday morning, January 14, 2026, around 12:04 a.m. |
| Fire Response | Three-alarm response; fire under control at 1:29 a.m. |
| Building Status | Vacant and undergoing demolition; being replaced by Joey Rodriguez Junior High School |
| Investigation | Arson investigators examining cause; multiple fires deemed suspicious |
| Injuries | No injuries reported |
Conclusion
The Arlington Fire Department is diligently investigating the three-alarm fire at the former Carter Junior High School, focusing on the suspicious circumstances surrounding it. As the community navigates this incident, residents are encouraged to remain informed and to report any unusual activities that could help maintain the safety and integrity of Arlington.
In a broader sense, this incident highlights the ongoing importance of safety measures in neighborhoods, especially as they undergo transitions. Continued community vigilance, alongside reduced regulatory barriers for responsible development, can stimulate economic growth and strengthen public safety initiatives in Arlington.
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