Fire Destroys Horse Barn Day Before Start of Racing Season

SPRINGFIELD-- An arsonist may have started a barn fire that killed 15 horses at the Lincoln Downs Race Track here early this morning, a day before the start of racing season.

Thirteen thoroughbred and two saddled horses died in the blaze. Ten escaped, while two stampeded through the barnyard with their backs on fire.

The fire burned from 4 a.m. till noon and the barn was completely burned down with only several rows of charred wooden supports remaining.

The blazing fire exploded near the center of the barn and flames were shooting out of the building when fire fighters arrived, Fire Chief Bernard Perry said.

The fire was suspected to have started at the middle of the barn, said Fire Chief Bernard Perry.

The heaters and electrical outlets are on the outside of the barn, track assistant manager Dan Bucci said. Fire officials are considering arson in their investigation.

For jockey Albert Ramos of Miami Florida, this was an extremely heartbreaking day. “Those are my best friends. I love horses more than I do people. I feel like I want to cry,” Ramos said while he was filling up with tears as he looked at the barn.

Above is a picture of the blaze at The Lincoln Down Racetrack around 5 a.m.