Although the wind wasn’t an issue Friday evening, everything is so dry due to lack of rain. The fire spread rapidly to the home, especially after the blaze reached the supply line of a propane tank on the back porch, causing it to explode. (JR Chaney photo)
A blaze at the Brentlee Thomas and Merisa Felix residence, located at 200 E. Hwy. 136 in Rock Port, Missouri, began at the back porch and quickly spread to the house around 5:00 p.m. Friday, March 20, 2026. (Tim Taylor photo)
Rock Port and Tarkio firemen, Atchison County EMS and first responders, the Rock Port Police Department, the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office, and several bystanders helped at the scene of the house fire at the corner of Hwy. 136 and Water Street on Friday, March 20, 2026. (AC Mail photos)
Besides the house and possessions, two indoor pets were also lost to the fire. A GoFundMe and several other fundraisers have been set up to assist the residents in getting what they need to start over. (Atchison County Mail photo)
The Rock Port Fire Department responded to a house fire Friday, March 20, at 5:19 p.m., at the intersection of 200 E. Highway 136 and Water Street after a call initially reported a porch on fire. By the time firefighters arrived, the flames had spread from the porch into the home, ultimately resulting in a total loss of the structure.
The cause of the fire is unknown, however, it is believed the blaze may have started with an electrical short beneath the back deck catching it on fire, which then caused the supply line on a propane bottle to melt. This created a torch‑like effect that accelerated the fire’s spread.
Homeowners Brentlee Thomas and Merisa Felix were not home when the fire broke out. While no individuals were injured, the fire tragically claimed two pets.
Mutual aid was provided by the Tarkio Fire Department, while Atchison-Holt Ambulance, the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rock Port Police Department were also on scene to assist.
The community has already begun rallying around Brentlee and Merisa. Those wishing to help can contribute through an account established at Citizens Bank & Trust or through a GoFundMe campaign set up for the family.
