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Authorities in Berks County, Pennsylvania, are investigating a devastating barn fire that resulted in the deaths of dozens of cattle. The fire broke out early Wednesday morning (August 13) on the 100 block of Onyx Cave Road in Perry Township, with reports coming in shortly after 4:30 a.m.
According to WFMZ-TV, the blaze quickly escalated to a three-alarm fire, requiring additional personnel and several tanker trucks to shuttle water to the scene. Firefighters reported that a column of smoke from the fire was visible from four miles away. The fire fully engulfed one barn and threatened two others, prompting the closure of Stone Hill Road to facilitate firefighting efforts.
Tragically, around two dozen cattle perished in the blaze, and several others suffered severe burns, necessitating euthanasia. Crews spent several hours battling the fire, but further details on the cause of the blaze have not yet been released.
The local community has rallied around the affected farmer, offering support in the aftermath of the incident. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the cause of the fire and prevent future occurrences.