Family, neighbors mourn death of Tyler woman who died after house fire

TYLER, Texas (KETK) — A Tuesday morning house fire near Caldwell Zoo, led to the death of a 68-year-old woman and a dog, the Tyler Fire Department said.

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According to a release, Mynetta Gilstrap, 68, died after being transported to a local hospital. Tyler FD was dispatched to a house fire at 1713 W Mims Street near the Caldwell Zoo at 9:51 a.m.

The initial call reportedly indicated that flames could be seen from the front of the house. Firefighters arrived to the house were they began containing the fire and began a search, locating Gilstrap and a deceased dog.

The fire was suppressed at 10:28 a.m. and officials continue to investigate the cause of the fire.

Longtime neighbor Janeesa Cooper told KETK a family member tried to break out an AC unit to save Gilstrap but the flames were too extensive.

“Her [Gilstrap’s] daughter brought her something to eat, and then it was a fire. We don’t know exactly what happened, but we loved her and she had a kind spirit,” Cooper said.

Neighbors living on Mims Street all grew up together in the 1950’s.

“We are called the Mims street crew,” longtime neighbor Curtis McCauley said.

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Even though some in the crew are not blood related, everyone is still considered family.

“We just have some great memories of growing up together and going to school. We rode to school together and we just we have been blessed with a beautiful life and great memories, so God Bless and she rest in peace,” Cooper said.

Gilstrap’s sisters and neighbors said they are finding peace in the memories that no fire can destroy.

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