The Roof Gave Way. Nobody Got Hurt. That Is the Story |
When the Beaumont VA Clinic's roof collapsed during a storm, staff had already moved every veteran and employee to safety. A new clinic is already under construction. |
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It was a routine Monday morning at the Beaumont VA Outpatient Clinic. Exam rooms filling up, phones ringing, veterans checking in for appointments. Then the rain came down heavy and a slow sag appeared in the roof.
Pedro Leon noticed it almost immediately. As the clinic's nurse manager and an Army veteran himself, he did not hesitate. He moved through the building directing staff and veterans toward the exits. Clinic Director Dr. Shanthi Reddy and several other employees did the same. The clinic emptied quickly and calmly.
Then the roof gave way.
By the time it collapsed, the building was empty. Not a single veteran, not a single staff member was injured. The VA has since recognized five employees by name for their role in the evacuation: Will Angelle, Latrecia Garrett, Pedro Leon, Dr. Shanthi Reddy, and Jose Estrada. "We are incredibly proud of our staff," said Lindsey Crain, deputy director of the Houston VA. "Their training and their instincts took over, and because of that everyone walked out safely."
The Beaumont VA Clinic serves more than 10,000 veterans in Southeast Texas. Since the closure, the VA has deployed mobile medical units to the parking lot and converted appointments to telehealth where possible. Staff have personally contacted every patient with a scheduled appointment.
There is also a longer view. A new Beaumont VA clinic broke ground in July 2025. When it opens, it will be nearly double the size of the current building. The roof collapsed on an aging structure. The replacement is already underway.
For more information click here for website: Beaumont Outpatient VA Clinic. Veterans with urgent medical needs can reach the VA at 833-363-1063. |