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Maddy Fogarty of The Bendigo Advertiser reports that a harness racing stable fire overnight in central Victoria has resulted in the deaths of 12 horses.
The resident of the Lancefield-Kilmore Road property informed police they’d heard what sounded like popping noises at 12.30am before deciding to investigate.
Upon arrival the horse stables – adjacent to the family home – were engulfed in flames and the resident sounded the alarm.
Several horses were able to be retrieved from the burning stables but, sadly, 12 are believed to have died in it.
At this stage police said there was nothing to suggest the fire was suspicious, however, they did set up a crime scene as fire investigators will attend the scene today.
Harness Racing Victoria issued the below to the industry:
Harness Racing Victoria (HRV) officials are attending the scene of an overnight stable fire in Forbes, which sadly is believed to have resulted in the death of 12 horses.
Several horses were able to be rescued from the blaze, which broke out in the early hours of the morning.
“This is obviously a very sad time for the participants involved and for the wider industry who care deeply for their horses,” HRV CEO Dayle Brown said.
Victoria Police have confirmed a fire investigator will attend the scene today and have stated that at this early stage there is nothing to suggest the fire is suspicious.
The HRV support team is reaching out to the participants involved to assist during this difficult time.
by Maddy Fogarty, republished from The Bendigo Advertiser and HRV
