Family Suffers ‘Heartbreaking Loss Of Cherished Animals’ In Barn Fire: Branford FD

BRANFORD, CT — A family suffered the “heartbreaking loss of cherished animals” in a barn fire on Cherry Hill Road in Branford on Friday morning, according to officials.

The Branford Fire Department responded around 10 a.m. to Fox Field Farm, a beloved family-owned farm-themed business, on the report of a barn fire with horses trapped inside. Fox Field Farm is known for hosting pony parties for birthdays, its summer programs, and other special occasions.

The first-arriving engine was at the scene within four minutes and “encountered a 75-foot by 40-foot barn with a loft that was heavily involved in fire,” according to a news release.

“Firefighters immediately initiated an exterior fire attack while simultaneously attempting to gain entry to the structure; however, entry was not possible due to extreme heat and heavy smoke conditions,” officials wrote in the news release. “At the time of the fire, the barn was occupied by four horses and several smaller animals. The property owner made a heroic effort to rescue the animals and was able to free one horse before being forced out by rapidly deteriorating conditions.”

He was treated at the scene by Branford Fire Department EMS personnel and taken to Yale-New Haven Hospital for further evaluation, according to officials.

“Firefighters battled bitter cold temperatures and icy conditions throughout suppression efforts and were able to successfully prevent the fire from extending to an adjacent garage and nearby residence,” officials wrote.

One Branford firefighter sustained burns to his hands and arms through his protective equipment due to intense radiant heat, according to officials. He was treated at Yale-New Haven Hospital Shoreline Medical Center and released. He will require follow-up care, officials said.

The Guilford Fire Department provided on-scene mutual aid, while the East Haven Fire Department covered Branford fire stations during the incident, according to officials.

“The Branford Fire Department extends its sincere thanks to both departments for their assistance,” officials wrote. “We also thank the Branford Police Department for traffic control and scene safety, as well as our Emergency Telecommunicators for their steady coordination of resources while simultaneously managing other emergency incidents.

“The Chambers family, well-established and deeply respected members of the Branford community and former owners of Shelly’s Garden Center, suffered the heartbreaking loss of cherished animals in this fire. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time, and we extend our full support as they face yet another challenge.

“We would also like to recognize and thank the many individuals—family, friends, and strangers alike—who came forward to assist the family in any way they could, demonstrating the true spirit and compassion of the Branford community.”

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, officials said.