Arson Suspected at Lincoln Downs Race Track

By Rebekah Borio, Staff Writer

Firefighter's wrestle a blaze in a barn at Lincoln Downs Race Track this morning
(Photo taken by Steve Win, Staff Photographer)


Springfield - Arson is suspected in a fire that killed 13 thoroughbreds in a barn at Lincoln Downs Race Track here this morning, just one day before the start of the racing season.

An arson squad has been assembled to investigate the blaze, which originated near the center of the building. “It could have been of incendiary nature” said Dan Bucci, the assistant general manager of the race track, “the only heaters and electrical outlets were in the track rooms at the ends of the barn" he added.

“Flames were shooting out of the building when we got here” said Fire Chief Bernard Perry, whose team wrestled the blaze until noon.

Among 13 thoroughbreds, two saddle horses also died in the blaze. Another two were badly burned as they stampeded out of the barn with fire on their backs

As the investigation continues to unfold staff members mourn. Jockey Albert Ramos stared in shock at the barn's charred ruins. “I love horses more that I do people,” he said, “I feel like I want to cry.”