Multiple horses die in overnight Saratoga Harness Track fire - WRGB

Saratoga Casino Hotel confirms that 17 horses died in Tuesday morning’s barn fire. The barn housed 18 horses, according to Saratoga Casino Hotel. An 18th horse escaped with minor injuries. The horses were owned by two trainers: Robyn Mangiardi lost 11 horses, and Timothy Benson lost six horses. The fire broke out around 2:30 a.m. in the backstretch area of the Saratoga Casino Hotel harness racetrack. Meanwhile, about 350 horses in nearby barns were led to safety. MORE: Barn where horses died didn't have fire suppression system, official says Grief counseling is being coordinated through Saratoga Hospital for trainers, caretakers, owners, and other members of the backstretch community. A memorial service for the horses will be announced at a later date. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. MORE: Community reaction pours in after Saratoga Harness Track fire kills multiple horses