The Reporter covers Miller, Morgan and Camden County in Central Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks and is published once per week on Wednesdays.

Published May 28, 2025

Fire destroys Richland apartment building

RICHLAND – An apartment building at Walnut Apartments is a total loss following an early morning fire last Sunday.

At approximately 4:13 a.m. on Sunday, May 25, the Pulaski County Dispatch Center received a report of a working commercial structure fire in the 200 block of South Walnut Street in Richland.

Initial response units on the first alarm included Tri-County Fire Protection District, Hazelgreen Fire Protection District, Waynesville Rural Fire Protection District and Pulaski County MO Ambulance District (Medic 24).

While en route, a Tri-County firefighter observed visible flames and immediately requested a General Alarm for additional manpower and resources.

The General Alarm prompted the dispatch of the following departments:

• St. Robert Fire and Rescue
• Crocker Fire Protection District
• Fort Leonard Wood Fire Department
• Dixon Rural Fire Protection District

Engine-Tanker 1351 was first on scene and reported heavy fire throughout the roof and multiple apartments of a single story, four-unit multiplex.

All occupants had safely evacuated prior to the fire department’s arrival.

Fire crews initiated a coordinated suppression effort and brought the fire under control by 6:06 a.m. All units cleared the scene by approximately 7:22 a.m.

The incident remains under investigation by the Missouri Division of Fire Safety – State Fire Marshal’s Office.

The Tri-County Fire Protection District extended its appreciation to all assisting agencies for their swift and professional response:

• Pulaski County Mo Ambulance District (Medic 24)
• Waynesville Rural Fire Protection District – Engine Company
• Hazelgreen Fire Protection District – Tanker Company
• St. Robert Fire and Rescue – Command Vehicle and Engine Company
• Fort Leonard Wood Fire Department – Command Vehicle and Ladder Company
• Crocker Fire Protection District – Two Engine Companies
• Dixon Rural Fire Protection District – Tanker Company

Richland is situated in Camden, Laclede and Pulaski counties.

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