Authorities Investigating Death After Missoula Structure Fire

On January 13, 2026, at around 6:30 PM, Missoula Police Department Public Officer Whitney Bennett provided the following statement.

"Missoula Police Department and Missoula Fire Department responded to a reported residential structure fire in the 2300 block of Ernest Avenue just after 0830 hours this morning," Bennett said. "Fire crews worked to extinguish the fire, and the incident is now part of a joint investigation. Missoula Fire Department is leading the investigation into the cause and origin of the fire."

During the response, Bennett said an adult male was located deceased inside the residence.

"Missoula Police Department is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death," Bennett said. "Preliminary information indicates the fire is not believed to be the cause of death. The investigation remains ongoing pending the completion of an autopsy.  At this time, the cause of death remains under investigation. Our thoughts are with the individual’s family and loved ones during this difficult time."

More information will be released as it becomes available and when appropriate.

On Tuesday morning, the Missoula Fire Department responded to a structure fire in the 2300 block of Ernest Avenue. Firefighters, EMS, and Missoula police responded around 8:30 a.m.