Fire Claims Lives of Two Horses, Spurs Investigation in Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA — A fire at an unregistered stable in Southwest Philadelphia killed two horses and left 12 others in need of rescue on Thursday morning. The blaze broke out at approximately 7:37 a.m. on the 5800 block of Lindbergh Avenue, prompting swift action from the Philadelphia Fire Department, which extinguished the flames by 8 a.m.

According to the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) Animal Law Enforcement team, two horses perished in the fire, while others suffered significant injuries. Investigators are now looking into the circumstances surrounding the incident, which has raised questions about potential animal cruelty and neglect.

“Today, our community was shaken by news of a devastating stable fire in Philadelphia,” said Julie Klim, CEO of the PSPCA. “As news of this tragedy spreads, our Animal Law Enforcement team has been on scene since the early morning hours, working tirelessly to rescue the animals in harm’s way.”

Witnesses reported seeing fire consume the structure, described as a pop-up stable made primarily of plywood and hay. Sarah Barnett, executive director of ACCT Philly, noted the materials were highly combustible. “It’s like a fire’s dream. It’ll go up so easily,” Barnett stated.

Gordon Parks, the owner of the Scorpion Horse Ranch where the fire occurred, claimed he initiated the project to benefit local children. “We were doing a program to try to help the kids find a different way of life,” Parks said, adding that he had submitted documents to the city in hopes of legalizing his operation.

However, the facility was unregistered and operated illegally on city-owned redevelopment property, as confirmed by city officials. Parks expressed disbelief regarding the fire’s origin, stating, “I’m trying to figure out how something catches on fire when there’s no electricity down there.”

In addition to the horses, ACCT Philly crews rescued a goat and a pig, which were spotted in the scattered debris. The animals are being transported for proper care and rehabilitation. “It is legal to house horses in Philadelphia, but you have to look at what the housing of those horses looks like,” said Gillian Kocher from the PSPCA.

Officials stated that three of the rescued horses required immediate medical attention at a special center due to critical injuries sustained in the blaze. The PSPCA has initiated a fundraising campaign to support the care of these animals.

As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement officials are asking for assistance from the community. Anyone who may have ownership of the horses or has information about the case is urged to contact the PSPCA’s Animal Cruelty hotline at 866-601-7722 or via email at [email protected].

This tragic incident has brought significant attention to animal welfare practices within the city and the regulation of animal housing facilities. Investigators are focused on determining the cause of the fire and any liability surrounding the horses’ care.

The PSPCA and local animal welfare advocates continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring all animals affected receive the care they need.