HOUSTON, Feb. 21 (UPI) -- The remains of a married couple were found in the rubble five days after an apartment complex fire in suburban Houston, fire investigators said.
The bodies of Derrick and Temika Patterson were located in a building gutted Wednesday by a 3-alarm fire. Although neighbors and Houston police knocked on doors to warn residents during the spreading fire, the list of tenants provided by apartment managers did not include the names of the Pattersons, the Houston Chronicle reported. The search ended when all listed tenants were found safely.
"All people had been reported accounted for, and there was no reason to continue the search," said Fire Marshal Mike Montgomery, adding his department responded properly and the apartment complex could not be searched fully because of a collapsing upper floor.
Family members said questions remain about the two deaths.
"There is some accountability that needs to be there," said Michael Bill, Temika Patterson's father. He said neighbors tried to warn firefighters that people were still in the building. His statement was disputed by fire officials.
Sean Richardson, Little Valley Volunteer Department deputy chief, said when a building collapses "survivability is slim to none."
The Fire Marshal's Office said the investigation was ongoing.
