April 4, 2025
News release prepared by:
Battalion Chief Ron Lubke

At approximately 11:57 AM on April 4, 2025, the Missoula Rural Fire District (MRFD) was dispatched to a reported structure fire in the 6300 block of Lantern Ridge Lane in Lolo. The first engine company arrived on scene in under three minutes and encountered a single-wide mobile home fully engulfed in flames.

The sole occupant of the home had evacuated safely before the arrival of fire crews. Firefighters initiated an aggressive offensive fire attack; however, due to the intensity and volume of the fire, crews were forced to withdraw to a defensive position until the bulk of the flames could be knocked down. Once conditions improved, firefighters resumed an offensive strategy to fully extinguish the blaze.

Overhaul operations were extensive due to the large amount of personal belongings within the residence. The fire was brought under control in approximately 40 minutes, with complete extinguishment taking just over two hours.

MRFD responded with two engines, three water tenders, a ladder truck, and a command unit. Mutual aid was provided by the Florence Rural Fire District with an engine and water tender. Additional assistance came from Missoula Emergency Services Inc., Missoula County Sheriff’s Office, and Northwestern Energy. In total, 19 firefighters were on scene. Thankfully, there were no injuries reported to civilians or firefighters.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by MRFD fire investigators. The occupant is currently staying with family. A damage estimate is not yet available.

MRFD would like to take this opportunity to remind the public to use caution when operating electrical appliances and to never leave them unattended. It is also critical to ensure that all homes are equipped with working smoke detectors.

Additional information will be released as it becomes available.

For additional information on this incident or fire safety please contact MRFD at 406-549-6172