A fire that broke out at a shopping mall in Dallas, Texas, on Friday morning killed more than 500 animals.
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The cause of the fire remains unknown and no humans were injured, local authorities told American media.
Most of the animals that died were small birds, it was added.
The animals died from smoke inhalation, police said.
The fire occurred in a pet store that is located behind the structure affected by the fire.
CNN screenshot
“Although the fire did not reach the pet store, a large amount of smoke entered it. All the animals present in the pet store unfortunately perished due to smoke inhalation,” explained Dallas fire spokesperson Jason Evans in a statement issued to American journalists.
Dallas Animal Services found a total of 579 deceased animals, including small birds, chickens, hamsters, dogs and cats.
CNN screenshot
Three people were in the building when the fire broke out. The individuals were all able to escape to safety after being alerted by the building’s fire alarm and sprinkler system, Evans said.
The fire left severe structural damage, including a partial collapse of the building’s roof.
