Elderville-Lakeport VFD

06/11/2026

You might notice a new look the next time you see some of your Elderville Lakeport firefighters.

Recently, the Elderville Lakeport Fire Department was awarded a turnout gear grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service. As part of this opportunity, the department selected a new gear vendor and has begun utilizing turnout gear supplied through Siddons-Martin Emergency Group and Fire-Dex.

While this new gear brings a different appearance to our firefighters, it also provides enhanced safety, comfort, and performance for our personnel while serving the community. As the fire service continues to evolve, so must the equipment we rely on to protect both our firefighters and the citizens we serve.

We are grateful for the support provided through this grant program and remain committed to ensuring our members have the tools and equipment necessary to perform their duties safely and effectively.

Elderville Lakeport Fire Department
Gregg County ESD #1
“Proudly Serving Our Community”

06/11/2026

Motorists traveling on Interstate 20 eastbound should expect significant delays. Traffic is currently backed up from the MM 590 area through Kilgore and past State Highway 135 due to ongoing road construction and multiple accidents.

Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area if possible and seek alternate routes. Please allow extra travel time, use caution, and be prepared for stop-and-go traffic conditions.

06/10/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Elderville-Lakeport Fire Department
Gregg County ESD #1

On June 10, 2026, at approximately 12:43 p.m., the Elderville-Lakeport Fire Department was dispatched to the north side of Lake Cherokee in reference to a reported missing person.

Units arrived on scene shortly after dispatch and immediately began searching the area. It was reported that the individual had last been seen on a boat dock approximately 30 to 45 minutes prior to the arrival of emergency personnel.

During a quick search of the area, responders located a deceased individual in the water.

The Gregg County Sheriff’s Office was requested to the scene and will be conducting the investigation. Any additional information regarding this incident will be released by the Sheriff’s Office as they deem appropriate.

At this time, the Elderville-Lakeport Fire Department would like to extend its sincere condolences to the family and loved ones affected by this tragic incident. No further information will be released by the department at this time.

Joshua Stelly
Public Information Officer
Elderville-Lakeport Fire Department
Gregg County ESD #1

06/07/2026

On June 6, 2026, members of the Elderville-Lakeport Fire Department attended the annual Lake Cherokee Boater Safety Course held at the Cherokee Water Company office. This event is hosted each year by Lake Cherokee to help young boaters obtain their boater education certification and learn about the responsibilities, safety practices, and hazards associated with operating a vessel on the water.

During the course, members of the Elderville-Lakeport Fire Department stopped by to provide a brief safety presentation and give participants an opportunity to tour Engine 1 l. Attendees were able to learn more about the department’s capabilities, equipment, and how emergency responders assist during water-related incidents.

This event is another great example of the strong partnership between the Elderville-Lakeport Fire Department and the Cherokee Water Company as we continue working together to promote safety and education within our community.

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.