Elderville-Lakeport VFD

05/31/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Water Recovery Operation Conducted on Lake Cherokee

On May 30, 2026, at approximately 3:45 p.m., the Elderville-Lakeport Fire Department was dispatched to the south side of Lake Cherokee in reference to a potential missing person. Firefighters arrived on scene within several minutes and immediately began assisting with search efforts for an elderly individual who had been reported missing.

After arriving on scene and gathering information, it was determined that the missing person may have entered the lake. Additional resources were requested, including the Longview Fire Department Water Rescue Team, the Rusk County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Parks and Wildlife Game Wardens, Lake Cherokee Lake Patrol and Christus EMS.

Upon arrival, members of the Longview Fire Department Water Rescue Team conducted underwater search operations. Shortly thereafter, divers located and recovered the deceased individual.

The identity of the deceased is being withheld at this time pending notification and official release by the Rusk County Sheriff’s Office.

The Elderville-Lakeport Fire Department extends its sincere condolences to the family and loved ones affected by this tragic loss.

No further information will be released by the Elderville-Lakeport Fire Department at this time. Any questions regarding this incident should be directed to the Rusk County Sheriff’s Office.

Media Contact:
Joshua Stelly
Public Information Officer
Elderville-Lakeport Fire Department / Gregg County ESD #1

05/16/2026

05/16/2026

Did you know every other Tuesday night the Elderville–Lakeport Fire Department holds training for our personnel?

Recently, we were able to purchase a new forcible entry door prop that allows firefighters to practice forcing doors in a safe, controlled environment while improving technique, speed, and teamwork for real world emergencies.

A huge thank you to Ace Hardware for donating materials to help make this training prop possible. We appreciate the continued community support!

05/05/2026

We’re seeing reports of low water pressure. Just an FYI.

05/03/2026

Today, the Elderville Lakeport Fire Department hosted the 3rd Annual Pat Owens Memorial Crawfish Boil.

This tradition was started three years ago following the passing of our former Chief, Pat Owens. Every spring, Chief Owens made it a point to bring people together over a crawfish boil something he truly looked forward to each year.

This event is about more than just the food. It’s about fellowship, honoring his legacy, and spending time with friends, family, and first responders from across the area.

We are incredibly thankful to everyone who came out and made today such a success. This was one of our biggest years yet, with over 300 pounds of crawfish, 60 pounds of shrimp, 100 pounds of corn and potatoes, and 40 pounds of sausage served.

Thank you all for continuing this tradition and helping us honor Chief Owens the way he would’ve wanted, together.

05/01/2026

Units are currently on scene of a residential structure fire in the 4400 block of FM 1249.

Kilgore Fire Department, Kilgore Rescue, and Crims Chapel Fire Department are assisting on scene.

This is an active incident. Please avoid the area and allow emergency personnel to work safely.

04/28/2026

Severe Weather Alert – Today & Tonight

Strong to severe storms are expected midday through the evening and possibly overnight across East Texas and surrounding areas.

Main Threats:

* Large Hail: Up to baseball size possible
* Damaging Winds: 70–80+ mph gusts
* Tornadoes: Low risk, but cannot be ruled out (some could be strong)

Greatest risk is near and north of the I-20 corridor, including Tyler, Longview, and surrounding areas.

04/24/2026

Plan ahead for severe weather this afternoon into the evening hours. NWS SPC has increased most of East Texas to enhanced risk for today (Friday). All modes of severe weather are possible, severe wind, hail, and tornadoes. Chances of severe weather are also in the forecast tomorrow (slight risk). Follow your local media and US National Weather Service Shreveport Louisiana for continued updates. Make sure you have a way to get notified of warnings; if you haven’t registered or updated the Smart911 app, do so today! It’s free on app stores or through a web browser.

04/23/2026

This morning, you may see fire apparatus out in the district flowing water and conducting driver operations. This is part of the final phase of field training for two of our newest members.

Before responding to emergencies on their own, all personnel at Elderville Lakeport Fire Department complete multiple field training shifts. This includes emergency vehicle driving evaluations, pumping and apparatus operation testing, and map/district familiarization.

This process ensures our team is fully prepared to serve our community safely, professionally, and effectively. We appreciate your patience and continued support as we work to provide the top-notch service you deserve.