A devastating overnight fire at a children’s play center in England has claimed the lives of every animal housed inside its mini zoo, authorities confirmed.
Emergency crews were called to The Jungle Box, a soft play center and mini zoo in Buntingford, Hertfordshire, at around 3 a.m. Wednesday after reports of a major fire at the property.
Ten fire engines responded to the fire at the facility, which opened in June last year and featured a petting area with a variety of animals, including meerkats, owls, iguanas, giant tortoises and a 16-foot snake, according to the Mirror.
After crews brought the fire under control, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that none of the animals inside the building survived.
No injuries to people were reported.
All the animals died
Assistant Chief Fire Officer Darren Cook said in a statement: “In the early hours of this morning we received calls to a significant fire at The Jungle Box in Buntingford. Crews worked hard to contain the fire and prevent it spreading to neighbouring units. I’d like to thank all crews for their professionalism and hard work and fire control colleagues for their calm and efficient handling of the calls.
“Sadly, we can confirm that a number of animals were inside the building at the time of the fire and did not survive. An investigation into the cause of the fire is now underway”
Images from the scene showed thick black smoke rising from the building as local residents were advised to keep their doors and windows closed.
Road closures were also put in place on Aspenden Road and London Road while emergency services responded to the incident.
The tragedy prompted an emotional reaction from neighboring business The Spud Twins, which shared a message of support on social media.
“Absolutely devastated for our friends over at the jungle box soft play,” the business wrote, according to the Mirror.
“If anyone has a visit booked or a party – you will be contacted in due course.”
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