MADEIRA BEACH, FLORIDA: A tragic incident was reported from a wildlife center in Madeira Beach where an early-morning fire had killed almost every animal present there. The incident took place on Thursday, July 13, near St Petersburg on Florida’s Gulf Coast. As per Madeira Beach Fire Department, their team reached the Alligator and Wildlife Discovery Center at around 3 am local time. Fire chief Clint Belk said that the crew had no choice but to shift to a ‘defensive operation’ due to deteriorating conditions and they had the situation under control within 45 minutes.
He also said that they were able to access the building immediately and once they got to it, the crew had to deal with an unprecedented situation. "We keep oxygen masks on the fire truck for dogs and cats, but this is just such a rare occasion. They're all exotic animals," Belk said. The reports of traffic delays are also coming from the region. "We suffered from a tragic fire last night. Nearly all of the animals are gone. We are devastated," posted the wildlife center on its Facebook page.
Who is Sonny Flynn?
The owner of the wildlife center, Sonny Flynn, is in a dismal state. She told CBS News that almost all the animals at the center had died and most of the reptiles were injured. “They didn't deserve this, this is my whole life. They all have names, they all have personality; I come in every morning and talk to them like Dr Dolittle, said Flynn. Before adding, “95% of these animals were pet surrenders because people didn't know how to take care of them, or they weren't able to take care of them.”
"Our immediate goal is the provision of humane, professional care for pet surrenders and orphaned native wildlife that cannot be safely returned to the wild," the center added.
What caused the fire?
As per the center’s website, it was home to over 250 exotic animals, including rescues and surrendered. It reads, “Endangered species live in danger of becoming extinct because of low or falling populations, or because they are threatened by environmental stress.”
Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber also provided an online platform where people who are willing to donate to the wildlife center can reach out and support. As of now, details like what caused the fire are not available. Meanwhile, the investigation is ongoing and is handed over to the Pinellas County Arson Unit and State Fire Marshal's Office.
