129-year-old church in small Missouri city ravaged by fire: arson suspected
A 129-year-old church in the small community of Leeton in southeast Johnson County, western Missouri, was heavily damaged Monday night in a fire that investigators say was intentionally set, according to the fire department.
Fire crews from the Johnson County Fire Protection District and the Warrensburg Fire Department responded shortly after 9:15 p.m. to the Leeton United Methodist Church at 106 N. Wall Street in Leeton.
Arriving firefighters reported heavy smoke and flames coming from inside the church, said Capt. Joe Jennings, a spokesman for the Johnson County Fire Protection District.
Firefighters launched an aggressive interior and exterior attack, battling the blaze for nearly three hours before bringing it under control, Jennings said.
The fire caused extensive damage throughout the church, which has long served as a cornerstone of the community, Jennings said. Leeton, home to about 550 residents, is roughly an hour and a half southeast of Kansas City. Firefighters were able to save some items from inside, and despite the damage, the church remains standing.
The Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office, along with the Johnson County Fire Protection District, Leeton Police Department, Johnson County Sheriff’s Office and the Johnson County Fire Investigation Unit, began the initial investigation into the origin and cause of the fire.
They determined that the fire was intentional, prompting a formal arson investigation.
“It’s heartbreaking to see a place that has stood for generations be deliberately set on fire,” Jennings said. “This church isn’t just a building; it’s part of the history and identity of Leeton. Seeing it damaged in this way is difficult for the entire community.”
Anyone with information about the fire is asked to contact the Missouri Arson Hotline at 1-800-39-ARSON (1-800-392-7766). A reward is available for information leading to an arrest.
This story was originally published October 21, 2025 at 8:51 AM.
