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Five horses killed in Sunderland fire

Five horses have died in a fire at a stable block in Sunderland.

Fire crews were called out early on April 20 after a fire in Coxgreen Road, New Penshaw.

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Investigation launched into stable fire

Credit: Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service have launched an investigation into the cause of a blaze at a stable block in Houghton-le-Spring today (Monday, April 20).

The service received a call at 4.55 am to say the stable block housing 20 horses at Station Road Stables, Coxgreen Road, New Penshaw was on fire.

Two fire engines and a risk assessment vehicle attended. Fifteen horses were led to safety by stables staff and neighbours, but five other horses died in the fire.

Group Manager John Allison, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Our deepest sympathies go out to the owners of the horses that tragically died in this fire. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation."

'Instinctive and decisive actions' saved horses

"The courageous actions of all of the officers who were first on the scene encompasses the true spirit of policing. Sadly, some horses were killed in the fire, however, the instinctive and decisive actions of the officers meant the majority were saved and safely secured in a nearby field. Additional officers who attended the scene assisted their colleagues throughout."

– Chief Inspector Sarah Pitt

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Police statement on horse deaths

Stables in Sunderland where horses died Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

"At 5am this morning police were informed about a fire at a stables at Coxgreen Road in Coxgreen, Houghton-le-Spring.

"Police attended and roads around the stables were closed so that the horses could be released and moved to safety and placed in a nearby field.

"Five horses died as a result of the fire. The occupants on the farm were evacuated as a precaution, they were not injured in the incident.

"Coxgreen Road between the junction's of Langdale Road and Offerton Lane."

– Northumbria Police statement
Stables in Sunderland Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

Five horses killed in Sunderland fire

Five horses have died in a fire at a stable block in Sunderland.

Fire crews were called out early on April 20 after a fire in Coxgreen Road, New Penshaw. Crews are still at the scene. The cause of the fire is currently unknown.

Five horses were killed in the fire Credit: ITV
The fire has since been dealt with Credit: ITV
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