More than 500 animals killed in fire at North Texas shopping center, officials say
More than 500 animals were killed when a fire broke out at a northwest Dallas shopping center Jan. 3, officials said.
Dallas Fire-Rescue units responded to Plaza Latina at 11200 Harry Hines Blvd. after a 911 caller reported a structure fire. Firefighters found heavy smoke and fire when they arrived, officials said, prompting them to request a second alarm.
The fire caused severe structural damage to the building, and the roof partially collapsed. The blaze was extinguished shortly after 11 a.m.
The owner of a business that sells animals told Spanish-language station KXTX-TV that around 500 animals died as a result of the fire. Only a handful of animals, including two puppies, two tortoises, some rabbits and a pig survived.
A large amount of smoke reached the pet shop, officials said, and the animals died from smoke inhalation. Firefighters attempted to rescue the animals but were unsuccessful.
Most of the animals that perished were small birds, according to officials. Some chickens, hamsters, two cats and two dogs also died. Dallas Animal Services removed 579 animals from the scene.
There are around 100 small businesses inside Plaza Latina, according to KXTX reporting. It’s not clear how many were affected.
No injuries to people were reported, according to fire officials. The cause of the blaze is under investigation.
This story was originally published January 4, 2025 at 11:40 AM.
