For Immediate Release

Structure Fire at 5507 Grant Creek Road

 

October 16, 2026

News Release
Prepared by: Battalion Chief Ron Lubke

At approximately 8:17 a.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026, Missoula Rural Fire District (MRFD) and Missoula Fire Department (MFD) were dispatched to a reported residential structure fire at 5507 Grant Creek Road. Initial reports indicated a fire in the attic of the residence.

The first engine arrived on scene to find a double-wide modular home with heavy smoke showing from the attic vents and roof. All occupants had safely evacuated the residence prior to the arrival of fire crews. Firefighters initiated an aggressive fire attack and were able to bring the fire under control within approximately 20 minutes. The fire had spread throughout the attic space, requiring extensive overhaul operations to locate and extinguish remaining areas of fire and ensure there was no hidden fire extension.

MRFD responded with three engines, two water tenders, one ladder truck, and a command unit. MFD responded with one engine. A total of 15 firefighters operated at the scene. Additional assistance was provided by the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), Missoula Emergency Services, Inc. (MESI), and NorthWestern Energy.

There were no injuries to civilians or firefighters. Fire crews remained on scene for approximately two hours completing overhaul and ensuring the fire was fully extinguished.

The property was not insured, and the occupants are currently receiving assistance from the American Red Cross. The attic of the home was extensively damaged from the fire and the living space received smoke and water damage. An exact damage estimate is not available currently.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation; however, it appears that the fire originated from a woodstove chimney.

 

Woodburning and Chimney Safety Reminder

As colder weather arrives and residents begin using wood-burning appliances, MRFD would like to remind the public of the importance of having wood stoves, fireplaces, chimneys, and associated venting systems properly cleaned and inspected before use. Regular inspection and cleaning can help identify potential problems and reduce the risk of chimney and structure fires.

MRFD also has chimney-cleaning brushes available for the public to check out at no cost for residents who choose to clean their own chimneys. MRFD encourages everyone using wood heat this season to take a few minutes to make sure their heating equipment and chimney are ready for safe operation.

 

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