Tragedy struck earlier today when a barn fire at Red Stone Ranch and Rescue in Coconut Creek claimed the life of one horse and injured another. According to Local 10 News, the fire was reported around 5 a.m. at the ranch, located at 4551 Northwest 39th Avenue. Coconut Creek Fire Rescue was on the scene swiftly, managing to get the blaze under control within 20 minutes.

Scotty Leamon, a public information officer for the Coconut Creek Police Department, noted in an email, "We are investigating the cause of the fire along with Coconut Creek Fire Rescue. The State Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting in the investigation," as reported by Local 10 News. The effort to contain the fire included additional support from Coral Springs-Parkland Fire Rescue and Lauderhill Fire Rescue. Despite the rapid response, the fire left its mark, taking the life of an equine resident and sending another to the veterinarian for treatment.

As covered by WSVN, aerial footage showed the devastating aftermath, with the structure largely destroyed and the deceased animal covered by a tarp. Importantly, no human injuries were reported in the incident. The ranch, known for its role in educating children on animal care, now faces a sorrowful chapter as they grieve and heal from this unfortunate event.

Further details were scarce, but it was clear the community felt the weight of the loss. "Several fire trucks and police vehicles could be seen at the scene as people walked in and out of pens and appeared to try to move animals, including horses and donkeys," detailed a report from NBC Miami.