A Panhandle man was sentenced to life in prison without parole after an investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) revealed he set a house fire to hide the murder of a 4-year-old girl, according to a March 12 announcement.
Humberto Martinez pleaded guilty on March 4 to capital murder for strangling Hope Raley. The Perryton Fire Department discovered Raley during their response to a house fire in Ochiltree County in 2022. A medical examination confirmed she died from strangulation before the fire began.
Martinez was found hiding in a crawl space under the house and was identified as the last person seen with Raley. The Perryton Police Department requested that SFMO investigate the origin and cause of the fire. Investigators determined Martinez intentionally started the blaze using a lighter and combustibles in an attempt to conceal his crime.
“Investigations like this demonstrate the critical role the SFMO plays in uncovering the facts behind suspicious fires,” said State Fire Marshal Debra Knight. “Our team’s work helped reveal the truth in a complex and tragic case, bringing justice and closure to the victim’s family.”
After being treated for smoke inhalation at a hospital, Martinez confessed to a Texas Ranger. Ochiltree County Attorney Jose N. Meraz said, “SFMO’s investigation was critical in the discovery that this matter was more complex than a simple house fire.”
The SFMO operates as part of the Texas Department of Insurance. Authorities encourage anyone who suspects arson to report it by calling 800-578-4677.
