Details Regarding Fire at Leased State Facility in Jefferson City

NOVEMBER 2, 2021

Jefferson City — Yesterday evening, the Jefferson City Fire Department responded to a reported fire at 1621 E. Elm Street, which is a leased facility for the State of Missouri. There have been no reports of injury or fatalities. It has been confirmed that no one was in the building at the time fire crews arrived.

The impacted building holds around 100 state team members who make up the Department of Social Services (DSS) and the Office of Administration’s Information Technology Services Division (ITSD). The ITSD staff who work in 1621 E. Elm support DSS.

"First and foremost, we are happy to report that no state team member, first responder, or citizen was hurt as a result of this fire," Governor Mike Parson said. "It is important for Missourians to know that state operations and services will continue uninterrupted thanks to our dedicated team members across state government who are stepping up to assist their teammates at DSS and ITSD." 

Currently, the Office of Administration is working with impacted state agencies to relocate team members to alternative work locations and replace equipment that has been destroyed from this isolated incident.

“We are incredibly relieved that no one was injured during last night’s fire,” said Robert Knodell, Acting Director of the Department of Social Services. “Material items and equipment can be replaced, but our team is invaluable. We will continue to work closely with those who were impacted to make sure they have the resources and support they need to not only continue serving Missouri citizens, but also to take care of their personal health and wellbeing at this time.”

“The well-being of our state team members who have been impacted during this incident remains our number one concern,” said Ken Zellers, Acting Commissioner, Office of Administration. “Overall state operations have not been hindered, but please keep our team members in your thoughts as we work through this challenge together.”

The State Fire Marshall is working with the Jefferson City Fire Department to inspect the damage today and will submit a report to the Governor’s Office. A contractor will be on site this afternoon to begin recovery and disposal of state owned equipment. Capitol Police are on site to restrict access for safety reasons. The State of Missouri is assessing the situation and will provide more information as it becomes available.