At least 17 horses were killed in a barn fire at the Saratoga Casino Hotel harness track.
SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (WNYT) – A barn fire at Saratoga Casino Hotel destroyed a backstretch stable, killing nearly 20 horses, canceling live harness racing, officials said.
Related: Saratoga community reacts to barn fire that killed estimated 17 horses
Saratoga Casino Hotel and the Saratoga Springs Fire Department said the fire broke out around 2:30 a.m. on Tuesday, June 16 in a barn at the backstretch of the harness racetrack at 25 Nelson Ave. The barn housed about 18 horses and was destroyed.
The Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association said an estimated 17 horses died in the fire.
No people were hurt, according to the casino hotel and fire department. Officials said members of the Saratoga Casino Hotel security team rescued several horses before the fire grew too large to manage.
“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.”
The Saratoga Springs Fire Department said when crews arrived at the scene they found an advanced fire condition. They said they worked to put the fire out while also trying to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby barns and structures.
The fire department said firefighters, law enforcement, staff and other people at the scene worked to remove animals from nearby structures but were unable to prevent the deaths of some. They said they were assisted by agencies across Saratoga County.
The fire is still under investigation. The fire department said updates will be released as they learn more.
Live harness racing was canceled June 16 at the track.
Saratoga Casino Hotel said more information will be released when it becomes available.
NewsChannel 13 has a crew at the scene and will bring you updates on-air and online.
Watch video of the fire
A fire at Saratoga Harness Track has killed several horses.
