DeSoto Woman's Home Crumbling Into Creek as Erosion Threatens Foundation

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A DeSoto, Texas homeowner says years of creek erosion have destabilized her home to the point that a single pillar now supports her kitchen, gas lines have ruptured, and she fears the next heavy rain could cause the house to collapse. LaShea Johnson Massengill and her husband purchased the home along Heath Creek in 2012, but heavy rains and floods have slowly eaten away at the land underneath, leading to structural damage and unreliable utilities.

Why it matters

This story highlights the growing issue of home damage and collapse due to environmental factors like erosion, which can threaten the safety and stability of residential properties, especially those located near waterways. It also raises questions about the responsibilities of homeowners, local governments, and insurance companies in addressing such problems.

The details

Massengill said the shifting ground caused gas leaks that began last March, prompting her to shut off the gas entirely. Broken pipes from the moving foundation have also made running water unreliable, forcing her husband to manually turn on the water supply each time they need to use the sink, shower, or wash dishes. The structural damage has changed how the family uses their own home, with Massengill saying she no longer feels safe spending time in her kitchen, which is now supported by just one remaining pillar.

• Massengill and her husband purchased the home along Heath Creek in 2012.
• In 2015, the water washed away the patio deck with a stairwell and stair rails leading down toward the creek.
• The gas leak problem began in March 2025.

What they’re saying

What’s next

WFAA contacted the city of DeSoto on Thursday to ask about this issue, but it was after business hours. The article states they will update the article with the city's response.