Investigators suspect arson in recent abandoned building fire in Commerce

KETR | By Mark Haslett

Published June 1, 2022 at 7:51 PM CDT

Water covers the site of the fire shortly after crews extinguished the blaze at the old Ponderosa Apartments property at Live Oak Street in Commerce May 20. — Water covers the site of the fire shortly after crews extinguished the blaze at the old Ponderosa Apartments property on Live Oak Street in Commerce May 20.

An vacant apartment block at the property known locally as the Ponderosa Apartments burned down May 20.

Commerce City Manager Howdy Lisenbee discusses the May 20 building fire at the abandoned apartment complex at 2224 Live Oak Street in Commerce. No one was injured in the fire. Investigators strongly suspect arson, Lisenbee said.

Lisenbee also discusses the basics of the City of Commerce's annual budget allocations, by type of service.

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Mark Haslett

Mark Haslett served as KETR's News Director from February 2013 to June 2025. During his tenure the station's news operation enjoyed an increase in listener engagement and audience metrics, as well recognition in the Texas AP Broadcasters awards and a National Edward R. Murrow award.

See stories by Mark Haslett