Early morning fire at Creation Kingdom Zoo destroys barn

GATE CITY, Va. (WCYB) — A fire broke out early Wednesday morning at the Creation Kingdom Zoo, destroying a barn and endangering several animals.

The Nickelsville Fire Department received the call around 4. Upon arrival, crews found a 40×60 foot barn engulfed in flames. Assistant Fire Chief Windburg reported that four fire departments responded to the four-alarm blaze to bring it under control.

The holding barn housed birds and other exotic animals, but officials could not confirm the number of animals injured or lost in the fire. Despite the destruction of the barn, crews managed to save a nearby structure.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities have not released additional details at this time.

The zoo said in a Facebook post that they will be closed until further notice.

Creation Kingdom Zoo is a popular local attraction known for its wide variety of animals. Updates on the investigation and the condition of the animals will be provided as they become available.