2521 South Avenue West | Missoula, MT 59804 | 406-549-6172 | Fax: 406-549-6023 | www.mrfdfire.org
For immediate release
Bear Run Trail structure fire
March 16, 2026
News Release Prepared by: Captain Andy Brown
On March 15th, 2026, Missoula Rural Fire District (MRFD) was dispatched at 12:56 p.m. to a structure fire on Bear Run Trail. 911 advised that, according to the reporting party, the fire appeared to be no longer burning and advised two dogs had been found deceased. Due to icy conditions encountered on Bear Creek Road, access was initially limited to a command unit and two responding four- wheel drive capable Type 3 engines. The first arriving command unit arrived on scene and found a two-story single-family residence with no fire or smoke showing. The reporting party was on scene and advised that the building was unoccupied and currently under construction. Upon initial investigation it was found that a fire had ignited and burned in the kitchen area of the home but had likely self-extinguished due to oxygen starvation in the sealed room.
The structure sustained moderate fire damage to areas of the kitchen and heavy smoke damage throughout the residence. Two deceased dogs were also located in the structure.
The response included:
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4 engines (Including 1 engine company provided by Missoula City Fire Department)
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2 water tenders
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1 command unit
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1 ambulance (Provided by Missoula Emergency Services)
The incident is currently under investigation by MRFD in coordination with the Missoula County sheriff’s office.
Residents are reminded to clear snow from access roads, driveways, and fire hydrants to ensure emergency vehicles can reach homes and businesses quickly and safely during winter weather.
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For additional information regarding this incident, please contact MRFD at 406-549-6172.