One horse dies, one escapes from barn fire

| 29 Sep 2011 | 03:34

West Milford — A private horse barn at 48 Van Orden Road, West Milford, was completely destroyed by fire on Sunday night. One horse, “Shaker,” perished as a result. Neighbors called in the alarm at 10:38 p.m., citing a fire in the woods. Apshawa, Community and Macopin volunteer fire companies responded, along with Fire Marshal Ronald Svrchek and Fire Commissioner Edward Steins. Upon arrival they found the two-story stable, located in the middle of an open field, fully involved. According to local residents, a loud sound was heard just prior to the fire and lightning is being considered as a possible cause. The investigation is on-going at this time. Other than the death of the horse, no other injuries were reported. Svrchek said that it is possible that the horse died before the fire engulfed the structure. A second horse freed itself and was rescued by a neighbor. West Milford First Aid Squad was on stand by, aiding the fire crews on the hot and humid night. The fire was out and the scene contained at 1:02 a.m. Monday.