Warrensburg, MO (March 10, 2025) – A house fire southeast of Warrensburg left two residents and two firefighters injured Sunday morning. The fire broke out in a home on the 300 block of SE 251 Road, prompting an immediate response from the Johnson County, Missouri, Fire Protection District at approximately 10:30 a.m.
By the time fire crews arrived, the two residents inside the home had managed to escape. Firefighters found the structure heavily engulfed in flames and worked to contain the fire, which took about an hour to bring under control.
During firefighting efforts, two firefighters sustained injuries inside the residence but were able to exit safely. They were treated at the scene and released. Meanwhile, the two residents were transported to a medical facility for further evaluation of their injuries.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Missouri State Fire Marshal.
This fire occurred less than a day after the tragic passing of Captain Venon Collett, a dedicated member of the Johnson County Fire Protection District who died in the line of duty on Saturday. Despite the loss, firefighters continued their work with unwavering commitment.
“Our personnel are still showing up, still putting in the work — even in the face of loss,” said Captain Joe Jennings. “They push forward because that’s what they do — for each other, for the community, and for those we’ve lost.”
We extend our thoughts to those injured and to the fire department as they navigate this difficult time.
Fire Safety and Prevention in Missouri
House fires pose a significant risk to families and first responders, often leading to severe injuries, property loss, and even fatalities. In Missouri, residential fires are commonly caused by electrical malfunctions, heating equipment, unattended cooking, and accidental ignition sources.
To reduce the risk of fire-related injuries, residents are urged to:
- Install and regularly test smoke detectors in their homes.
- Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
- Create and practice a fire escape plan with all household members.
- Never leave cooking or heating equipment unattended.
Firefighters put their lives on the line to protect their communities, and incidents like this serve as a stark reminder of the dangers they face daily. Ensuring homes are equipped with proper fire safety measures can help prevent future tragedies.
As investigators work to determine the cause of this fire, local authorities continue to emphasize the importance of fire safety and preparedness.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a house fire, support is available. Local Accident Reports can provide valuable resources to help you navigate the recovery process and find assistance in the aftermath of a fire-related incident.