PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – Pinellas County Deputies continue to investigate the horrific fire that ripped through the Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center in Madeira Beach, killing up to 100 animals.
On Thursday, July 13, 2023, at approximately 3:00 a.m., deputies on foot patrol at the John’s Pass Village observed flames from the Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center located at 12973 Village Boulevard in Madeira Beach.
Deputies requested the fire department to respond. The fire department responded and actively fought the structure fire.
In the news: PETA Calls For Permanent Closure Of Florida Animal Center After Fire Kills Nearly All Animals
Detectives say approximately 50-100 animals ranging from reptiles to mammals, perished due to the fire.
Madeira Beach Fire Chief Clint Belk said crews were met with heavy fire and smoke when they arrived.
Belk said there was a significant loss of animal life, including mammals, turtles, and alligators, but the exact number is unknown now.
According to the website of Alligator & Wildlife Discovery Center, 250 animals, including lizards, small mammals, amphibians, turtles and tortoises, fresh and saltwater marine life, and alligators, were all on the premises.
In the news: Florida Teen Arrested After Stabbing Fellow Teen On The Beach
On Thursday, PETA Foundation General Counsel Brittany Peet said, “After being confined to cramped cages or subjected to stressful and invasive hands-on encounters, these animals endured agonizing deaths as smoke and flames engulfed them. PETA is calling on this seedy shopping mall petting zoo to send any survivors to reputable facilities and shut its doors for good.”
Detectives assigned to the Burglary/Pawn (Arson) Unit are investigating the fire and say the fire does not appear suspicious in nature.
Android Users, Click To Download The Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter—signup for our free newsletter.
We can’t do this without your help; visit our GiveSendGo page and donate any dollar amount; every penny helps