CAMDENTON, Mo. – March 16, 2025 – A series of devastating wildfires tore through Camden and Laclede Counties in Missouri over the weekend, forcing evacuations, damaging dozens of structures, and leading to state of emergency declarations as high winds and dry conditions fueled the rapidly spreading blazes.

The fires, which began on Friday, March 14, were exacerbated by strong winds gusting up to 50 miles per hour, creating dangerous fire weather conditions across the region. In Camden County, the situation grew dire as flames encroached on homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure, particularly in the southwestern part of the county near Macks Creek. The Camden County Commission declared a state of emergency late Friday night after reports confirmed that approximately 30 buildings had been damaged or destroyed.

Emergency Operations Center and Camden County Road & Bridge team deployed heavy equipment while the Sheriff’s Department provided critical reconnaissance to guide our response.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol issued urgent evacuation warnings for residents in southwest Camden County, with troopers going door-to-door to ensure people fled the advancing flames. The fires were jumping roadways and threatening entire neighborhoods, Troop F posted on social media. We’re advising everyone in the affected areas to evacuate now.” The Southwest Camden County Fire Protection District echoed the call, urging residents to leave if they could see flames within 100 yards of their homes.

In neighboring Laclede County, the situation was equally chaotic as multiple fires broke out, straining local firefighting resources. Emergency services reported downed power lines sparking additional blazes, with Laclede Electric customers experiencing widespread outages. By Saturday morning, the county joined Camden in declaring a state of emergency, activating mutual aid agreements to bring in additional fire crews from across the state.

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe responded to the escalating crisis by signing an executive order on Friday declaring a statewide state of emergency ahead of the storms and fires. “This fast-moving situation demands a coordinated response,” Kehoe said. “The high winds and increased fire risk mean we must act swiftly to protect lives and property.” The order activated the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan, enabling state agencies to provide direct assistance to local jurisdictions.

Firefighters from as far away as Texas, Maries, Morgan, and Osage counties descended on the region as part of the Region F Fire Mutual Aid system, battling blazes that at times seemed uncontainable. In Camden County, the fire near Macks Creek was identified as the most pressing concern, with flames consuming homes and forcing residents to seek shelter at Macks Creek High School and the local Baptist church.

By Saturday evening, severe weather—including rain—began to move into the area, offering some relief to containment efforts. Camden County authorities noted that while the precipitation was aiding firefighters, crews remained vigilant as multiple fires continued to burn.

Washington, D.C. – March 13, 2025 – In a dynamic display of transparency and leadership, President Donald Trump welcomed reporters into the Oval Office today for an open question-and-answer session during a high-profile meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. The event, which took place just after 1:00 PM CDT, underscored Trump’s commitment to direct communication with the press and the American public, while reinforcing the United States’ pivotal role within the NATO alliance.

Reporters seized the opportunity to probe Trump on a variety of issues, and he responded with his characteristic blend of humor, decisiveness, and optimism. When asked about NATO’s role in countering emerging threats, Trump highlighted the alliance’s adaptability. “NATO’s tougher than ever—believe me, nobody thought it could be this strong,” he said. “We’re keeping the world safe, and we’re doing it together. That’s what matters.” His remarks drew nods of agreement from Rutte, who later told reporters outside the White House that Trump’s leadership has been “instrumental” in fortifying NATO’s resolve.

The president also addressed domestic concerns, offering an upbeat take on the U.S. economy and his administration’s agenda. “We’re bringing jobs back, we’re cutting taxes, and we’re making America the best place to live and work—nobody does it better,” Trump declared in response to a question about economic policy. His infectious enthusiasm seemed to energize the room, with several reporters smiling as they scribbled notes.

The City of Osage Beach Police Department released its weekly summary for March 3-9, 2025, detailing a range of incidents and arrests in the community. According to Administrative Lieutenant Michael O’Day, the department handled a total of 77 traffic stops, 56 fire-related calls, and 49 building or area checks, among other activities, during the week.

The report highlights several arrests made over the period, reflecting the department’s efforts to address crime in the area. On March 5, Richard K. Underwood, a 33-year-old Osage Beach resident, was arrested on a Camden County warrant for third-degree domestic assault. The following day, March 6, saw multiple arrests, including Sean A. Skaggs, 35, of Dixon, Missouri, taken into custody on a Morgan County warrant for failure to appear on a traffic offense, and Gerald D. Davenport, 47, of Shawnee, Kansas, arrested on a Saline County warrant for driving while suspended or revoked.

Also on March 6, two Osage Beach residents were arrested on drug-related charges. Bennie J. Jett, 48, faced charges of possession of a controlled substance, endangering the welfare of a child involving drugs, receiving stolen property, and a Camden County warrant for violating a court order. Michael P. Stewart, 58, was charged with possession of a controlled substance and endangering the welfare of a child involving drugs. On March 7, Teresa M. Whittle, 54, of Osage Beach, was arrested for stealing and possession of a controlled substance.

In addition to arrests, the department responded to a variety of calls, including 24 ambulance requests, 18 alarms, eight traffic hazards, and five reports of suspicious activity. Other notable incidents included four accidents, three disturbances, and one fraud case.

Lieutenant O’Day emphasized the department’s commitment to public safety and encouraged residents to stay informed by signing up for city alerts at www.osagebeach.org under the “Notify Me Sign Up” section.