BLACKWELL, OK – On March 13, 2025, the Blackwell Fire Department and Blackwell Police Department responded to a structure fire at the House of Prayer Church, located at 900 S. 9th St. in Blackwell, Oklahoma. The fire occurred in the building that houses both the worship center and a food bank that provides assistance to families in need.
Following an investigation, authorities determined the fire to be an act of arson.
Officers quickly identified a suspect, who later returned to the scene. Law enforcement officers took 41-year-old Trisha Dawn McPhee into custody on charges of Second-Degree Burglary and Second-Degree Arson.
The Oklahoma State Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting in the ongoing investigation.
The Blackwell Police Department extends its gratitude to the Tonkawa Fire Department and the Newkirk Fire Department for their assistance in responding to the incident.
