Barn fire in New Plymouth kills 28 horses, injures two employees
A large barn fire in New Plymouth killed dozens of horses and injured two people before local fire departments put out the flames.
The New Plymouth Fire Protection District responded to the fire at 6:44 a.m. Sunday on Little Lane, New Plymouth Fire Chief Joseph Wyatt told the Idaho Statesman in an email.
“Upon arrival, fire crews reported heavy fire throughout the building and were forced into a defensive attack,” a news release sent by Wyatt said.
After crews got it under control, they confirmed that 28 horses died in the fire, the release said.
No firefighters were injured, but two employees of the property were treated at the scene and transported to a medical facility by Payette County Paramedics for smoke inhalation, according to the release.
Wyatt said that the response included about 40 firefighters from New Plymouth, Sand Hollow, Fruitland, Gem County, Parma, Nyssa and Payette. The Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the fire’s cause.
New Plymouth has experienced a bout of recent fires over the past several weeks, including the burning down of the Double Diamond Saloon.
“Our crews have been responding to back-to-back calls — structure fires, medicals and everything in between,” Wyatt said. “It has pushed all of us hard, and our firefighters have answered every call with professionalism, dedication, and heart.”
Wyatt posted a statement on Facebook, thanking his crews for all their hard work.
“Your commitment, long hours, and willingness to drop everything for this community is the foundation of our district,” Wyatt said. “I am proud of each and every one of you.”
