January 11th, 2026 Local News
Park Hills, Mo. (KFMO) - A large fire destroyed a vacant building on Front Street in Park Hills Saturday, January 10, 2026, drawing a massive multi-alarm response and mutual aid from fire departments across the region.
Just after 12 p.m., the Park Hills Fire Department received a walk-in report of a building on fire just up the street from the station. Firefighters were already at the station following a previous call and were able to respond immediately, arriving on scene within minutes.
The building, which was last used as a residential care facility but had been vacant for several years, was fully involved upon arrival. A second alarm was quickly requested, along with multiple tanker trucks to supplement the city’s hydrant water supply. As the fire grew and threatened nearby structures, additional alarms were called.
A fourth alarm was ultimately requested, and with the arrival of additional units, the response reached the equivalent of a fifth-alarm assignment. Within approximately 20 minutes of the initial response, the building’s second and third floors collapsed into the first floor.
Fire departments from multiple counties assisted at the scene and provided move-up coverage throughout St. Francois County. Crews used multiple master streams and aerial apparatus to bring the fire under control.
During the initial size-up, firefighters also discovered several brush fires burning between Rivermines Street and the railroad tracks, sparked by intense heat and windy conditions. Those fires were quickly addressed as part of the overall response.
Fire officials say smoke from the incident will remain visible for several days. Authorities emphasize there is no danger from smoldering fires in the basement. Heavy equipment was brought in to remove debris and ensure complete extinguishment of remaining hot spots.
No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office.