HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – Emergency crews have responded to the scene of a structure collapse in west Harris County in which they say dozens of people were injured.
Authorities told us the collapse occurred in the two-story detached garage behind a residence on Park Mill and Park Brush Lane. The second floor of the garage "pancaked" onto the first floor, injuring people on both floors.
Dozens of people could be seen outside the home, many of them were being treated by emergency personnel.
Several people were seen sitting in the driveway, some holding ice packs to their head. Firefighters set up an impromptu triage on the street and in the driveway.
Officials brought the injured out on stretchers to waiting ambulances. At least 30 people were transported to nearby hospitals, including Texas Children's, Katy Memorial and Methodist West hospitals. We're told six children were among the victims.
Tim Thomas with the West I-10 Fire Department says there were approximately 100 total victims inside the two-story garage. HFD says injuries ranged from minor cuts and abrasions to significant blunt trauma.
A large white tent was erected over the driveway in front of the garage. A neighbor told us it appeared to be some sort of party.
"Well I was just in the house behind it and they were playing a bunch of loud music and it sounded like the roof collapsed," he said.
A letter was distributed by the homeowner to neighbors saying there was to be a celebration from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday with about 150 guests expected to attend. The religious celebration would include music and dancing, the letter read.
HFD says all the victims are out of the structure.
This story comes courtesy our sister station in Houston, KPRC.