Twenty-four horses have perished as a result of an overnight barn fire, and the tragic event has left the proprietor of the farm heartbroken.
According to an article by NEWS 8 WTNH.com, fire crews responded to a blaze at Folly Farm in Simsbury, Connecticut at roughly 7:00 local time this morning (Thursday, December 28).
The report states that the fire was extinguished ‘within minutes,’ as more than 30 firefighters rushed to put out the blaze at the Hunter/Jumper barn.
Although, the farm’s general manager, Alison Patricelli, DVM, DACVS, has conveyed via social media that 24 of the facility’s horses perished in the incident due to smoke inhalation.
“The fire department is still working to determine the cause of the fire,” Patricelli has said. “Tragically, 24 horses housed in our metal arena barn died of smoke inhalation. Most of these horses were part of our Riding School and our Polo School, and three were privately owned. These gentle souls taught hundreds of children and adults how to ride, to play polo, and to love through the years. They were the heart and soul of Folly Farm and of our lives. The 19 horses housed in other barns were not affected. We appreciate all of the love and support we have received from horse lovers across the country.”
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to all of those affected by the barn fire.
(With files from NEWS 8 WTNH.com)