A structure fire that broke out Friday morning at a Dallas shopping center killed more than 500 animals, most of which were small birds, authorities said.
The cause of the fire remains unknown and no injuries have been reported. The animals died from smoke inhalation, according to authorities.
The fire occurred at Bazar Plaza Latina, which houses a pet store directly affected by the fire.
“Even though the fire did not reach the pet store, a large amount of smoke entered it. As DFR personnel searched and attempted rescues, unfortunately all of the animals in the store perished due to smoke inhalation,” Dallas Fire Department spokesperson Jason Evans said in a statement.
Dallas Animal Services removed a total of 579 animals, including small birds, chickens, hamsters, two dogs and two cats. The business also sold exotic animals, none of which were found on site at the time of the recovery.
Three people were in the building when the fire started, all of whom escaped safely after being alerted by the building’s fire alarm and sprinkler system, Evans said.
The fire left behind significant structural damage, including a partial roof collapse.
In a post translated from Spanish on the company’s Facebook account, Bazaar Plaza Latina asked for prayers for families who work at the mall.
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