Devastating Fire at Winona Equestrian Center Claims Horses and Property
WINONA, Minn. — A fire at an equestrian center in Winona has left the community reeling after two horses perished and significant parts of the facility were destroyed. The blaze ignited Thursday afternoon, prompting a response from approximately 100 first responders who worked tirelessly for nearly eight hours to control the flames.
Owner Jess Rivers expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the two horses, which were trapped in an area deemed inaccessible during the fire. “They were in an area that was just not attainable, so we are very sad about that loss,” Rivers lamented. The equestrian center, which Rivers founded in 2003 with her family, has been a labor of love, where memories were made and children raised amid the horses.
The fire not only claimed animal lives but also caused extensive damage, including an employee’s home attached to the facility and one of the barns. “It’s a little hard to get used to this idea that this has happened,” Rivers reflected amidst the ruins.
The local Wilson Fire Department, led by Chief Josh Murphy, managed to save over half of the structure from complete destruction, thanks to the quick response of over 50 volunteer firefighters. Murphy acknowledged the extraordinary effort made by these volunteers, stating, “They did a really good job and they worked really hard." The chief highlighted the importance of the volunteer fire service in the region, especially during such a challenging incident.
An investigation into the fire’s cause is ongoing, being handled by the State Fire Marshal’s Office, with preliminary indications suggesting that the blaze may be suspicious. As the community rallies around Rivers and her family, they are taking each day as it comes in the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy.
Source
Photo credit www.kimt.com
