KATY, TX (Covering Katy News) – A lightning strike sparked a large fire at the Grand Fountain Apartments Sunday afternoon, with smoke visible for miles as multiple fire departments responded to bring it under control.
There were no life-threatening injuries but a firefighter and a civilian required medical attention at the scene where they were treated and released.
At the height of the fire, flames were shooting out of the roof of the three-story wooden apartment building in the 23000 block of FM 1093, just west of Highway 99.
The Grand Fountain Apartments are located in unincorporated Katy, but the complex falls within the primary coverage area of the Fulshear Simonton Fire Department, which led the emergency response.
The fire required a multi-agency response due to the size and intensity of the flames. Additional crews from Harris County ESD 48, Community Volunteer, Richmond, Willowfork, and Rosenberg fire departments also responded.
"It started because of a lightning strike, and at the same time we had two other fire calls caused by lightning," said Jason Tharp of the Fulshear-Simonton Fire Department.
He also noted that at least two other departments in the Katy area responded to lightning strikes at about the same time.
1 of 6
Covering Katy News
Firefighters keep water on the roof of the Grand Fountain Apartments.
2 of 6
Covering Katy News
A fire at the Grand Fountain Apartments along FM 1093 at Highway 99 on Sunday, June 29, 2025.
3 of 6
ESD 48
Fire at the Grand Fountain Apartments in the Katy area on June 29, 2025.
4 of 6
Covering Katy News
Several fire departments responded to the fire at the Grand Fountain Apartments along FM 1093 at Highway 99 on Sunday, June 29, 2025.
5 of 6
Covering Katy News
A fire at the Grand Fountain Apartments along FM 1093 at Highway 99 on Sunday, June 29, 2025.
6 of 6
Covering Katy News
A fire at the Grand Fountain Apartments along FM 1093 at Highway 99 on Sunday, June 29, 2025.
Extinguishing the flames proved challenging for firefighters.
"The fire was tricky because it would appear to be out and then it get into the floorboards and pop out in another location," Tharp said.
The fire caused extensive damage to the building. Four apartments were destroyed by flames but the damage extends to all floors.
"The middle of the third floor collapsed onto the second floor, and the whole building has water damage," Tharp said.
The Red Cross is assisting residents who were unable to return to their apartments. Some lost everything.
Traffic delays occurred in the Katy area during firefighting operations.
Fire crews remained at the scene hours after the fire was out, helping with mop-up operations and ensuring that the fire did not rekindle.