Three dead in Fayette nursing home fire

FAYETTE, Mo. (KMIZ)

Three people died in a nursing home fire on Tuesday in Fayette.

The fire engulfed the building on Villers Drive behind Perkins Residential Care Center on Main Street in Fayette on Tuesday morning, co-fire chief Steven Morrow told ABC 17 News. Morrow said firefighters had to battle the blaze defensively when they arrived due to the size of the fire.

Morrow said firefighters have recovered two of the bodies from the fire, and first responders are still searching for the third person.

Jamie Wilhoit, owner and administrator of Perkins ISL, gave no comment on Tuesday.

The Department of Mental Health had certified the individualized supported living facility in 2024, according to an email from spokeswoman Debra Walker. ISLs are recertified every two years. Walker's email says in 2024, "there were no fire safety or environmental concerns."

This is a developing story. Stay with ABC 17 News for the latest information.