Structure fire on Mantle Way in Lolo leaves trailer heavily damaged

LOLO, Mont. — A structure fire on Mantle Way in Lolo severely damaged a trailer on March 3, 2026, according to a news release from the Missoula Rural Fire District (MRFD).

The fire was dispatched at 7:40 p.m., and MRFD arrived to find more than 50 percent of the trailer engulfed in flames. All occupants had exited safely before firefighters arrived, but a dog remained inside.

With assistance from the Florence Fire Department, crews brought the fire under control. Firefighters located and removed the dog, but it did not survive.

Significant damage was caused to the front of the trailer, with the rear sustaining heavy smoke damage. The response included three engines, a ladder truck, four water tenders and a command unit.

The cause of the fire has been classified as undetermined following an investigation by MRFD, the Missoula County sheriff’s office and the Montana State Fire Marshal's Office.

Residents are advised to test smoke alarms monthly and change batteries during daylight saving time transitions.