A quiet early Friday morning in Phelps County turned tragic when a carbon monoxide leak inside a duplex just east of Rolla left five people dead and two others injured on Friday, according to county authorities. First responders pulled victims from the home, and one deputy who went inside was also exposed to the gas and treated at the scene by EMS. The Phelps County Sheriff’s Office said it is notifying next of kin and has not yet released the victims’ names while investigators continue their work.
Deputies and emergency crews were called to the duplex just before 5:30 a.m., where they found five people dead, one person critically injured and another with moderate injuries, First Alert 4 reported. The outlet also noted that a Phelps County deputy was exposed to carbon monoxide while entering the building and received treatment from EMS at the scene.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured individuals and the families of the deceased," the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department said in a statement, as reported by First Alert 4. The department said it is investigating the circumstances and will provide updates as more information comes together.
Investigators Work To Pinpoint Source Of Leak
Investigators and first responders remained at the duplex as officials worked to determine where the carbon monoxide originated. The sheriff’s office did not release an exact address for the property. The Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, headquartered in Rolla, has shared its contact information for residents who want updates or who may have information related to the incident.
Why Carbon Monoxide Turns Deadly So Fast
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that hundreds of Americans die each year from unintentional carbon monoxide exposure and many more end up in emergency departments. To reduce risk, the CDC recommends installing CO detectors near sleeping areas and having fuel burning appliances serviced every year.
Local officials and first responders have repeatedly warned residents about generator and heater safety after severe weather. In March 2025, a Phelps County man and his dog died after using a portable generator indoors following a storm, the local station KY3 reported, highlighting how quickly carbon monoxide can build up in enclosed spaces.
Safety Steps Authorities Urge Residents To Take
Federal guidance from the U.S. EPA and public health agencies is blunt about what not to do. They advise against running generators or gasoline powered equipment inside homes, garages or other enclosed spaces, and recommend keeping portable generators at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and vents. Officials also urge people to install and regularly test CO alarms with battery backup near sleeping areas, and to seek medical care for anyone who develops symptoms like headache, dizziness, nausea or confusion after possible exposure.
Authorities say the investigation into the Phelps County duplex incident is ongoing. Additional details are expected once families have been notified and officials finish processing the scene.
