Saratoga Springs, New York – Last week, a devastating, early morning fire consumed a barn housing 18 horses at the Saratoga Casino Hotel Harness Track. The fast-moving fire claimed the lives of 17 horses who were boarded at the facility by two trainers.
According to the Saratoga Springs Fire Department, firefighters found a “barn heavily involved in a fire” when they arrived on June 16. Firefighters worked hand-in-hand with law enforcement and facility staff to try and remove the horses, but 17 of the 18 horses died in spite of those efforts.
In a release, the Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association said the horses in the barn belonged to trainer Robyn Mangiardi, who lost 11 horses, and trainer Timothy Benson, who lost six horses.
“The loss suffered today is heartbreaking for our racing community,” said Sam Gerrity, Chief Executive Officer of Saratoga Casino Hotel. “Our thoughts remain with Robyn, Tim, their teams, the horse owners, and everyone affected by this tragedy. We are deeply grateful to the security personnel, first responders, and racing staff whose swift actions helped protect the horses and people in the surrounding barns.”
Henry Westbrook, President Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association added:
“This is a sobering day in our industry, a horse person’s worst nightmare. We express our deep condolences to all impacted and thank all emergency responders and track workers for their quick response.”
The investigation into the fire is ongoing.
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