21 horses killed in Marion County barn fire, officials say
21 horses killed in Marion County barn fire
An early morning barn fire in Marion County has claimed the lives of 21 horses, officials say. Firefighters said they found the 10,000-square-foot, single-story barn fully engulfed in flames, and the roof had collapsed on top of the structure.
MARION COUNTY, Fla. - An early morning barn fire in Marion County has claimed the lives of 21 horses, officials say.
Firefighters said they found the 10,000-square-foot, single-story barn fully engulfed in flames, and the roof had collapsed on top of the structure.
No people were injured in the incident.
Barn fire kills 21 horses
What we know:
Marion County Fire Rescue said they were dispatched to reports of a barn fire with horses trapped inside around 3:58 a.m. on Tuesday at the 6000 block of Northwest 118th Street, Reddick, Florida.
Officials said they arrived at the barn around 4:11 a.m. to find the 10,000-square-foot, single-story barn fully engulfed in flames, and the roof had collapsed on top of the structure.
An early morning barn fire in Marion County has claimed the lives of 21 horses. (Credit: Marion County Fire Rescue)
Unfortunately, authorities said 21 horses died in the fire.
First responders said they were able to get the fire under control at 5:13 a.m.
What we don't know:
Authorities have not yet confirmed what caused the start of the fire or what the total damages are.
What they're saying:
"We are aware of a tragic incident that occurred on private property personally owned by the individuals who also own World Equestrian Center," World Equestrian Center officials said in a statement. "While the private property is entirely separate from and not affiliated with World Equestrian Center business or operations, we extend our deepest sympathies to those affected. As this is a personal matter, we will not be providing further comment. We appreciate your understanding and respect for the privacy of those involved."
Fire crews said things could have been even worse.
"They immediately started suppression efforts, and they started protecting a sister barn that was right next door that was full of horses," said Marion County Fire Rescue Chief James Banta.
The 911 caller said the farm belongs to the granddaughter of Larry and Mary Roberts — the founders and owners of the World Equestrian Center and of the Roberts Quarter Horse Farm.
(Credit: Marion County Fire Rescue)
"Marion County, we're considered the horse capital of the world," said Banta. "The horse industry is huge here in Marion County. So, it's definitely heartbreaking for our community. It's heartbreaking for the owners, and (our) hearts and prayers go out to all of them."
Banta said the cost passed a legal threshold, which means the local crews automatically have to turn things over to the state. The state called in for help from federal officials with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms — they have more resources, and can help get to the bottom of how the fire actually started.
"Knowing the cause can have many different ramifications," Banta said. "Accidental, what caused the fire? So, how can we prevent these things from happening in the future? Sometimes it'll impact fire code and change the fire code in the feature to try to make sure fires like this don't occur. You're also looking for arson, intentional types of fires and things like that."
What's next:
The State of Florida Bureau of Fire, Arson and Explosives Investigators and Marion County Fire Marshal's Office are investigating the cause and origin of the fire.
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The Source: This story was written based on information shared by Marion County Fire Rescue in social media posts on April 8, 2025, as well as in interviews conducted by FOX 35's Marie Edinger.