The Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center in Madeira Beach, Florida, was the victim of a horrific night time incident that included a violent fire that caused considerable damage and the tragic loss of the bulk of the Florida Wildlife Center animal residents.
The devastating information was confirmed by the wildlife center and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office.
Devastating Fire At Florida Wildlife Center
Over 250 animals representing a wide variety of species were held at the facility, which was well renowned for its dedication to wildlife protection.
These included alligators, as the center’s name suggests, as well as reptiles, small mammals, amphibians, turtles, and tortoises.
The center also functioned as a temporary haven for a variety of animals that were acquired from various sources.
These organizations and individuals included the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and pet owners who were no longer able to give their animals the care they required.
While on foot patrol along the scenic John’s Pass Village Boardwalk in the early hours of Thursday, Pinellas County deputies learned about the fatal incident.
They immediately called the fire brigade for aid after their alert eyes noticed flames coming from one of the buildings.
Fire Chief Clint Belk said that when the Madeira Beach Fire Department quickly reacted to the distress call, they arrived at a terrifying scene covered in intense flames and thick smoke.
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Firefighters Adapt Strategy To Protect Themselves
The firefighting teams initially used an internal attack tactic to halt the quickly expanding fire.
They had to move to a defensive approach, though, as things swiftly got worse, in order to protect themselves.
In spite of the difficult circumstances, the hardworking firefighters were able to put the fire out in around 35 minutes.
Fire Chief Belk conveyed this sad information with saddened hearts as it tragically became clear how many animals had perished in the raging flames.
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