A Birch Tree woman died in a residential structure fire late Thursday night. According to the Shannon County Sheriff’s Office, dispatch received the call at 10:23 p.m. for a fire at 7118 South Wall Street in Birch Tree.
Birch Tree Fire & Rescue responded and requested assistance from the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office during the investigation. Authorities determined an individual was inside the residence, and Sheriff Steven Hogan responded at the Fire Marshal’s request.
Officials say 78‑year‑old Linda R. Stauffer and her pet poodle were found deceased inside the home. The cause of the fire and the official cause of death remain under investigation, though no foul play is suspected.
Sheriff Hogan personally notified next of kin and expressed appreciation for the professionalism and compassion shown by the Fire Marshal’s Office and Birch Tree Fire & Rescue. He noted the emotional toll these incidents take on responders and communities alike.
The sheriff extended condolences on behalf of the department to Stauffer’s family, friends, and loved ones as they navigate their loss.
