"Texas Fire Chief Dies Battling House Fire Amid Historic Wildfires"

Fritch Fire Chief Zeb Smith, 40, died while fighting a house fire after battling historic wildfires in Texas. The wildfires have destroyed as many as 500 structures, with the largest fire in Texas history burning almost 1,700 square miles. Governor Abbott offered condolences and emphasized the ongoing need for support. Firefighters are making progress, but residents are urged to remain vigilant as dry weather and the potential for lightning pose ongoing threats. Smith is survived by two sons, and the cause of the Smokehouse Creek fire is under investigation.