DALLAS, Texas – A fire at the Plaza Latina shopping center on Friday morning claimed the lives of 579 animals, most of them small birds, and caused extensive damage to several businesses.
The fire began around 9 a.m., with thick smoke rapidly filling an exotic pet store in the complex, resulting in widespread fatalities due to smoke inhalation.
Dallas Fire-Rescue responded promptly after Jasmine Sanchez, whose mother owns a clothing store in the center, called 911 upon noticing the fire.
Firefighters rescued several animals, including dogs, cats, guinea pigs, and a tortoise, which were treated on-site. Despite their efforts, hundreds of birds, chickens, hamsters, two dogs, and two cats could not be saved.
The fire was classified as a two-alarm blaze, requiring nearly 50 firefighters to combat the flames.
The operation was complicated by a partial roof collapse, which hampered access to parts of the building. While the fire itself did not reach the pet store, smoke quickly filled the space, causing severe harm to the animals.
Images captured during the rescue showed firefighters performing CPR on a tortoise and reviving a puppy. Dallas Animal Services took custody of the surviving animals to ensure their care and recovery.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities are examining how the blaze started and spread through the complex so quickly. Robert Borse, a spokesperson for Dallas Fire-Rescue, confirmed no exotic animals were found in the pet store.