Two fatalities were reported after a rural structure fire in Saline County on Thursday, January 15th.

According to the Saline County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to a residential structure fire at 8:30 a.m. in the 16000 block of EE Highway, in rural Saline County. Upon arrival there were heavy smoke and flames and emergency services were unable to make entry. Two residents were inside the structure at the time of the fire.

According to the Saline County Coroner’s Office, Beth Perkins was located deceased inside the residence, while Monroe Perkins was flown to University of Kansas Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries from the fire at approximately 11:50 a.m. Friday, January 16.

The incident is being investigated by the Missouri State Fire Marshall’s Office at this time.