NEAR MAGNOLIA, Texas
--
A barn fire in Montgomery County killed at least a dozen horses Tuesday.
The fire broke shortly after 6 a.m. at the Goslin-Nix stable on FM 1488 and Superior Road near Magnolia.
Investigators said there were 28 Arabian horses inside the 5,000-square-foot barn.
At least 14 horses were able to escape when neighbors and passers-by opened outer stalls to release the horses. Firefighters entered the burning building and opened interior stalls, fire officials said.
"Every one of these horses represents a family member to someone," Montgomery County Fire Marshal Jimmy Williams said. "We have lots of family members that are grieving."
Some of the surviving horses suffered burns, scrapes and smoke inhalation, investigators said. A veterinarian was sent to the scene to treat the animals.
"You take care of them, they love you, they trust you," said Jennifer Goslin, the stable owner's daughter. "They're fabulous creatures."
Firefighters pulled a second alarm and crews from The Woodlands and Needham helped battle the blaze.
The barn was destroyed. The owners said they plan to rebuild.
The cause is under investigation.
The horses' owners said the animals were show horses worth an average of $60,000 each and one world champion horse was worth $100,000.
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