First degree murder charge filed in September fire that killed former Webb City resident

The Franklin County, Kansas, District Attorney's Office filed first degree murder charges Tuesday against an Ottawa man in connection with the September 10 fire that killed former Webb City resident Morgan Rainey.

Ryan D. Braker, 45, a former Lamar resident, has also been charged with aggravated arson, two counts of aggravated battery and aggravated endangering a child.

The Franklin County Sheriff's Office issued the following release after the fire:

On September 10, 2026, at about 7:19 pm, emergency personnel responded to 3722 US 59 Hwy, in reference to a structure fire. Upon arrival they found the building to be fully engulfed. A female adult was located deceased inside the structure. An adult male and an infant suffered burns and were transported to KU Medical Center for treatment.

 

 

Rainey, 35, was the mother of three children, according to her obituary, and had a gift for working with people with disabilities.

Rainey's murder took place less than five years after Braker was sentenced to 10 years in prison for possession of methamphetamine and a weapons charge. At the time Braker was awaiting trial on those charges, he was being held without bond and attempted to have his bond reduced.

From the court docket:

Defendant requests a $25,000 cash or surety bond. State and Defendant give their rendition of potential evidence to be presented at trial. Defendant presently has an A felony with significant injuries to the alleged victim. Victim still resides in the area and fears for her life. The Defendant has more than 10 felony convictions. Defendant has served time in DOC. 

Defendant has predominantly been involved in the criminal system for the past 15 years. Defendant's suggested place of residence is in Kansas City. Defendant has had at least four failures to appear in other cases. The Defendant is looking at significant time if found guilty. The Defendant is unemployed, but may have a possibility of employment, even though mainly unemployed over the last 15 years. One of the present charges is Resisting Arrest charge. Based upon the above, and other arguments heard during the hearing, the Court finds Defendant is a danger to the alleged victim and the community. Bond is denied.

Braker is being held on $1 million bond, cash or surety.