BULLARD, Texas — An East Texas veteran says he was shocked to see his home in Bullard and cherished memories, including those of his late wife, go up in flames Tuesday night.
Robert Sheppard said it was his dearly departed wife’s dream to own a home with a pool.
"It's just devastating seeing that. A lot of memorable things here with my late wife," Sheppard said. "This was like my peace zone. We always wanted that and finally got it. It was bittersweet, you know? But like I said, I carry her with me, and I just keep that memory."
Memories are all he has left. Sheppard only lived in this home for 11 months.
According to the Bullard Fire Department, the fire broke out around 10 p.m., in the 200 block of Baganie Lane in the Katima subdivision.
Sheppard said a Ford Mustang and his late wife’s Range Rover were damaged in the fire. He was not injured and was the only person home when the fire began.
Neighbors helped the veteran escape the spreading flames overnight.
"We couldn't get in touch with him, so we made entry to the house, gathered up all the belongings that were valuable, and toted them out," neighbor Joshua Odam said.
Bullard FIre Chief Peter Riley said the fire originated in the breaker box in the garage and it's possible an electrical issue sparked the blaze.
Sheppard said he recalled seeing the flames and initially thought it was the neighbor's yard before realizing it was his own home.
Now, Sheppard faces the reality of rebuilding once again. He said his military background will get him through this loss.
"A lot of it comes from my military training - you learn to adapt and overcome. Things always get better. Just wait," he said.