Fire at zoo » Rīgas Zooloģiskais Dārzs

Fire at zoo
08-01-2011

Zoo officials in Latvia's capital say three zebras, three ostriches and an antelope died in a fire that spread quickly because of tinder-dry hay. Riga Zoo development manager Edgar Vitols said Friday it is unclear what caused the fire, though zoo officials believe it was likely the result of faulty wiring because the old building was heated by electricity.

The animals were being housed in the building for the winter.

Officials say a night guard first noticed the fire but by then it was too late to save the animals.

08-01-2011

This is so sad, and yet another fire after the bad one in Germany, such a shame for the animals.

08-01-2011

How awful! One of the last ways I'd want to lose an animal.