For Immediate Release 

Structure Fire on Highway 200 East 

September 13, 2026 

News Release 
Prepared by: Battalion Chief Ron Lubke 

At approximately 1:15 p.m. on Sunday, September 13, 2026, Missoula Rural Fire District (MRFD) was dispatched to a reported structure fire at 20361 Highway 200 East, outside of Bonner. 

Multiple callers reported a building on fire, initially described as either a large shop or garage. The first MRFD engine arrived on scene in just under 15 minutes and reported a fully involved structure. The structure was approximately a 20-foot by 50-foot pole barn containing a 30-foot fifth-wheel camper. Both the pole barn and camper were fully engulfed in fire when fire crews arrived, and the pole barn had started to collapse.  

Due to the heavy volume of fire and the extent of involvement, firefighters initiated a defensive fire attack. Crews were able to bring the fire under control within approximately 30 minutes of arrival. Firefighters remained on scene for several hours conducting overhaul operations, extinguishing hot spots, and ensuring the fire was completely extinguished. 

MRFD responded to the incident with two engines, three water tenders, a ladder truck, and a command unit. MRFD was assisted at the scene by engines from East Missoula Rural Fire District and Greenough-Potomac Volunteer Fire Department. Missoula Emergency Services and the Missoula County Sheriff Office also aided at the scene.  

There were no reported injuries to civilians or firefighters. 

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. A damage estimate is not available currently. 

MRFD would like to thank our assisting agencies for their support and cooperation during this incident. 

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For additional information regarding this incident, please contact MRFD at 406-549-6172.