**Driver Critically Injured in Crash; Firefighters Pull Occupant from Burning Car** Garland Police traffic investigators are investigating a serious crash in the 6200 block of N. Shiloh Road that left one person critically injured. Just after 11:00 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 12, Garland Fire Department Engine 6 crews were on their way to another call when they came upon a single-vehicle crash involving a car that had struck a utility pole and caught fire with the driver still inside. Firefighters immediately stopped, were able to remove the driver from the burning vehicle, and extinguished the fire. The driver, and sole occupant, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where they remain in critical condition. No firefighters were injured. The investigation remains ongoing, but preliminary information indicates that speed may have been a factor.

Please join us in congratulating Aaron Villa on his promotion to Driver Engineer. Congratulations!

Over the past three years, a resident on Bowie Street in District 1 faced significant health challenges. As Robert’s health declined, his family became very familiar with the crews from Fire Station 1. Firefighters from all three shifts made numerous runs to his home, becoming a constant source of care and support. Robert passed away a couple of weeks ago. In lieu of flowers, his family asked that drinks and snacks be sent to Station 1 as a thank you to the firefighters who cared for him. During Robert’s funeral on Thursday, the family publicly recognized the Garland Fire Department and the compassion shown by the Station 1 crew over the years. When the family returned home, the Station 1 crew honored Robert by driving their apparatus to the family’s home. Everyone came outside as it passed; there wasn’t a dry eye in sight. The Garland Fire Department is humbled and honored to be thought of during such a difficult time. We extend our deepest condolences to Robert’s family. At GFD, we’re proud to serve Garland, not just as first responders, but as part of the community.

Yesterday Driver Engineer John Curry worked his last shift with us. John spent the last 26 years serving the citizens of Garland and the department well. We would like to congratulate John on his retirement and wish him health and happiness in his next chapter. You will be missed John!

Please help us congratulate Captain Jacob Mount for being awarded the Leadership award from the City of Garland. “Captain Jacob Mount is an exceptional leader whose character, service, and dedication embody the highest ideals of the Garland Fire Department and whose influence strengthens every level of the organization. Firefighters who serve under him describe Captain Mount as the model of what a GFD captain should be. He invests deeply in the development and well-being of his crew, leads with humility and consistently brings out the best in others. His team highlights that he leads by example, encourages open communication, mentors future officers, and lives out his values through his work. Battalion Chiefs echo this admiration, recognizing Captain Mount's integrity, work ethic, and willingness to go above and beyond. His contributions include hosting retiree breakfasts, leading the department's pre-fire planning, participating in the Peer Support Team, leading the FD Bible Study, and supporting members and their families during difficult times-including sitting with Chief Perry's family during funeral planning. He has also become well-known across the shift as a skilled baker, famous for a mean cinnamon roll that has helped raise morale more than once. Despite outside challenges in recent years, Captain Mount remains grounded and continues to demonstrate exceptional leadership. When the EMS1 vacancy opened, he didn't ask about logistics and advancement, Captain Mount asked: "Where do you think I could do the most good for GFD?" Captain Mount's dedication, humility, and pursuit of excellence have strengthened the Garland Fire Department in both visible and unseen ways. He is a leader who models the values of a true public servant. Thank you, Jacob, for being a true Ambassador for Team Garland.

**Stepped-Up DWI Enforcement Christmas and New Year Holiday** The Garland Police Department will step up Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) patrols from Friday, December 12 through Thursday, January 1. Officers will be active during the nighttime hours using both marked and unmarked patrol units to deter impaired driving and improve roadway safety. In the State of Texas, a first-time DWI conviction carries serious legal penalties, including: • Fines up to $2,000; • Up to 180 days in jail; • Driver’s license suspension for up to one year. Safety officials say other costs associated with a DWI arrest and conviction can add up to more than $17,000 for bail, court costs, attorney fees, mandatory education programs, increased auto insurance, and other legal financial obligations. Impaired driving remains a significant threat to roadway safety across Texas and in our region. In 2023, more than 1,100 people were killed in alcohol-involved crashes in Texas, representing over 26% of all traffic fatalities statewide. Garland Police encourage residents and visitors to: • Plan ahead for a sober ride home; • Designate a sober driver before festivities begin; • Use rideshare, taxi services, or public transit if planning to drink; Impaired driving is 100% preventable. Let’s do our part and keep Garland roads safe this holiday season. This initiative is funded through a Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Impaired Driving Mobilization Grant (IDM), aimed at reducing impaired driving crashes and specifically targeting DWI and Driving Under the Influence of Minors.

It was a delightful night celebrating the holiday spirit with the community at Christmas on the Square. We are grateful for our citizens. Thank you to all who stopped by for a visit and photos. Also, thank you to those who brought a donation for our toy drive. #garlandfire #GFD #MakeYourMark #teamGarland #bettertogether City of Garland, Texas Government

A huge thank you to Garland Fire Department Station 1 for hosting this morning’s retiree breakfast. We appreciate everyone who worked to put the event together and make it special. To all of our retirees who were able to attend — thank you! And to those who paved the way before us, your legacy is still felt every day. Your wisdom, experience and knowledge built the foundation our department stands on. Because of you, we continue a culture of professionalism and excellence that is second to none. Thank you for everything you’ve given to the City of Garland and to the generations of firefighters who followed.

Garland Fire Department is proud to announce that the Station 8 remodel is complete! The crews are officially back home and proudly serving the citizens of Garland from their newly renovated station. Thank you for your patience and continued support! 🚒🔥

Today we remember our fallen brother Firefighter Brad Hargrave, who lost his battle on 11/14/2021. His dedication, courage, and heart continue to inspire all of us who had the honor to serve beside him. Brad is not forgotten — his legacy lives on in the community he protected and the brothers and sisters who carry his spirit forward.

Join the Citizen's Firefighters Club of Garland for Pancakes with Santa Claus and hang out with the Garland Fire Department! Your ticket includes All-You-Can-Eat Pancakes, one sausage patty, milk or coffee. Take a picture with Santa Claus and start off the holiday season.

🔥 Huge congratulations to Captain William “Bill” Crews! 🔥 Bill has completed the Texas Fire Chiefs Academy and is now officially a Certified Fire Executive with the Texas Fire Chiefs Association! 👏 Your dedication, leadership, and passion for the fire service inspire everyone around you. Way to go, Captain Crews!

#SaveTheDate to #Drive4URCommunity! Oct. 23rd #PlanetFord635 will be at the #Garland9thStreetGym with the latest #Ford lineup for you to #TestDrive. For every valid test drive, #Ford donates to the gym up to $6,000 another non-profit. Vendors are inited to join in support, too!

If you are looking for a free and fun family event, then come out and join us for Safety Fest 2025!

MISSING PERSON – PLEASE SHARE We need your help to find 61-year-old Cenith Yvette Horton. She was last seen Friday, August 8, around 8:45 a.m., on foot near her home in the 200 block of South Barnes Drive in Garland. Family says she has ongoing medical issues, including the effects of a previous brain aneurysm, and may become confused or disoriented. We are concerned for her safety. Black female, 4’11”, 115–120 lbs Scar on the front of her neck Brown/black hair in a ponytail Last seen wearing a white T-shirt, jean shorts, and dirty Air Jordans If you see her or have any information, call 972-485-4840 or 911 immediately.

Come out and support a great cause! Say hi to some of your local firefighters while you are there!

**Update** Detectives Seek Public’s Help Identifying Adult Male Found in the Creek on July 13 Issue Date: July 15, 2025 Detectives have confirmed that the partial remains found in a creek on July 13 belong to an adult male. His identity has not yet been determined, and investigators are asking for the public’s assistance. The male has a tattoo on his upper left thigh that appears to depict claws and possibly a wing or similar feature. However, due to the level of decomposition, the details are difficult to distinguish. Anyone with information that may help identify the individual is urged to contact Detective Lingenfelter at 972-205-4021.

This Thursday, July 3, is Garland's Red, White & You Celebration! 🎆 Don't miss out as Downtown Garland comes alive from 5-10 PM with FREE live performances, games and activities, & more! Cap off the evening with a fireworks show above the Square. 🎆 visitgarlandtx.com/red-white…

**Traffic Alert** Eastbound I-30, just before Broadway: Officers are currently working a crash involving an 18-wheeler. While some lanes remain open, expect delays in the area. Consider using an alternate route if possible. Drive safely.