A devastating barn fire on the backstretch at Saratoga Casino Hotel claimed the lives of multiple Standardbreds early Tuesday morning, June 16.

Saratoga Casino Hotel and the Saratoga Springs Fire Department have reported that a fire broke out in a barn located in the backstretch of the harness racetrack at approximately 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday morning.

The barn, which housed approximately 18 horses, was completely destroyed by the fire. Despite the rapid response of emergency personnel and on-site staff, several horses perished in the fire. No human injuries have been reported.

Early reports from local horsepeople indicate horses lost in the fire were from stables including Tim Benson, Chris Long and Robyn Mangiardi. According to an estimate as of late Tuesday morning by the Saratoga Harness Horseperson's Association, it is believed 17 horses were lost in the fire.

Members of the Saratoga Casino Hotel security team acted quickly to rescue several horses from the barn before the fire intensified and became unmanageable.

Firefighters responded promptly to the scene and worked to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby structures. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the appropriate authorities.

“Our thoughts are with the horse owners, trainers, caretakers, and all those affected by this tragic loss,” said John Matarazzo, Director of Racing Operations at Saratoga Casino Hotel. “We are grateful for the swift actions of our security, nearby NYRA personnel, and the Saratoga Springs Fire Department, whose efforts helped save numerous horses and ensured there were no injuries to people on site.”

"This is a sobering day in our industry, a horseperson's worst nightmare," said Henry Westbrook Jr., President of Saratoga Harness Horseperson's Association. "We express our deep condolences to all impacted and thank all emergency responders and track workers for their quick response."

"This tragic loss is a reminder this can happen anywhere," said Supervisor Sarah Burger, Counsel for Saratoga Harness Horseperson's Association. "My heartfelt condolences go out to all impacted. Thank you to all first responders local and state for your prompt response. We must work to learn the cause and do everything in our power to ensure this does not happen again."  

Live harness racing has been cancelled for Tuesday at the track. 

Further updates will be provided when available.

Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the connections of the horses lost in the barn fire.

(With files from Saratoga Casino Hotel & Saratoga Harness Horseperson's Association)