Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Smoking Cop Blamed for Vienna Point Nursing Home Fire

1/3/2026

44 11

Summary

Story summary

An official report concludes the Vienna Point nursing home fire in Missouri on August 7, 2025 was caused by Police Chief Shannon Thompson's lit cigarette.
Security footage shows Thompson smoking and placing the cigarette in a planter before leaving.
The fire ignited about 90 minutes later, destroying the building and causing no injuries.
Maries County Prosecutor Anthony Skouby is investigating the incident and criticized Thompson's actions.

1 of 1

Story summary

An official report concludes the Vienna Point nursing home fire in Missouri on August 7, 2025 was caused by Police Chief Shannon Thompson's lit cigarette.
Security footage shows Thompson smoking and placing the cigarette in a planter before leaving.
The fire ignited about 90 minutes later, destroying the building and causing no injuries.
Maries County Prosecutor Anthony Skouby is investigating the incident and criticized Thompson's actions.