$2.6 million Texas mansion destroyed in fire during severe storms
FRIENDSWOOD, Texas -- A large fire engulfed a mansion on FM 528 in Friendswood. Texas, as storms moved through the area overnight.
The home was once an event venue known as the White House Ranch. According to the Galveston County Appraisal District, the home is worth $2.6 million.
ABC7's sister station ABC13 Eyewitness News anchor and reporter Mayra Moreno was on the way to League City to cover the heavy rain in that area when she spotted the flames.
The Friendswood Fire Department said it first received a call about heavy smoke throughout the home, which has a partial third floor.
"The guys made an aggressive attack, but they could not get ahead of fire. They went defensive and pulled out. It's such a tough fire because we could not put our ladder trucks up because of the lightning," said Battalion Chief Mark Faber.
It's unclear how the fire started and if it was weather-related.
Faber said dispatch received a 911 call that said everyone inside the home evacuated. No injuries were reported.
"They are pretty distraught watching their home. It's been in Friendswood for a long time. I've been born and raised here, and it's been here a long time," Faber told ABC13.
"This is what we live for, to help our neighbors," he added.
The fire marshal will determine the exact cause of the fire.
RAW VIDEO: Fire at Friendswood home
WATCH: Firefighters provide update on fire at Friendswood home
