(Editors Note: Following is a report from the Times Union on the fire at Saratoga Casino Hotel on Tuesday, June 16)
SARATOGA SPRINGS — At least 30 racehorses died in an overnight fire at a Nelson Avenue barn used by trainers of horses at the nearby harness track, according to the lawyer for the organization that represents owners, trainers and drivers.
Sarah Burger, a city supervisor and lawyer for the Saratoga Harness Horseperson’s Association, said they were still counting the number of dead horses and expected the total would rise.
She said most of the horses came from a single trainer’s barn, and a statement would be released later today.
Saratoga Casino Hotel, which operates Saratoga Harness Track, said in a statement that a barn that housed at least 18 horses was destroyed by the fire and at least seven animals were confirmed dead.
“Our thoughts are with the horse owners, trainers, caretakers, and all those affected by this tragic loss,” John Matarazzo, director of racing operations at Saratoga Casino Hotel, said. “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 hotel’s statement noted that the track’s security team rescued several horses from “the barn before the fire intensified and became unmanageable.”
Live harness racing has been canceled for today at the track. Additional information will be released as it becomes available.
No people were injured.
Firefighters battled flames overnight at the 25 Nelson Ave. complex. Fire Chief Aaron Dyer said the fire was reported at 2:30 a.m. A video shared with the Times Union shows flames towering over one of the barns, while orange smoke illuminated by the flames below rose above several barns.
In the morning, state fire investigators could be seen pulling into the complex.
Thoroughbred trainers use some of the barns at the complex during the summer racing meet at Saratoga Race Course, but none of those horses were harmed.
Burger shared a statement from the president of the Horseperson’s Association.
“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.” Henry Westbrook said.
“This tragic loss is a reminder this can happen anywhere. 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.”
The street, which runs between Saratoga Race Course and the harness track, was closed between Gridley Street and Crescent Avenue, police said.
Firefighters remained on the scene early Tuesday morning. The cause of the fire is under investigation.