By Staff Writer — July 15, 2025
Nixon, Texas — The communities of Nixon and Smiley are rallying in support of 62-year-old Israel Perez, the longtime postmaster in Smiley, who remains in critical condition after sustaining extensive burns in a house fire early Monday morning.
Emergency crews responded to the blaze around dawn on July 14 at a residence located at 711 E. 4th Street in Nixon. Perez, the sole occupant at the time, suffered third-degree burns over a significant portion of his body and was urgently transported to San Antonio Military Medical Center for advanced care.
Authorities now believe the fire was deliberately set. Following a joint investigation by Nixon Police, the Texas Department of Public Safety Rangers, and the State Fire Marshal’s Office, 64-year-old Delia Ann Trigo of Nixon—Perez’s wife—was taken into custody. She faces charges of aggravated assault causing serious bodily injury to a family member, as well as arson. Trigo remains in the Gonzales County Jail with bond set at $250,000.
Nixon Police Lt. Travis Beck confirmed that the origin of the fire and collected evidence pointed to intentional ignition. The investigation into the full circumstances surrounding the incident remains ongoing.
As Perez continues to fight for recovery, residents in both towns have expressed deep concern and sympathy for his condition. Known for his years of service and warm presence, Perez has long been a familiar face in the community.
Further updates will be released as officials continue to gather information and the case develops.