TAGHKANIC—Thirty animals were killed when their newly constructed metal barn at 189 Sopak Road, went up in flames, February 28 at 11:32 p.m.
Taghkanic firefighters and Northern Dutchess Paramedics were called to the barn that housed Joe Macri’s miniature horses, goats, guinea hens, sheep, pregnant goats, rabbits and pigs, all of which perished.
One miniature horse was able to escape, but had to be put down due to severe burns.
The animals were Mr. Macri’s life, he told newsman Lance Wheeler, they were his “pets” and his “joy.”
Fire investigators are trying to determine what caused the fire. A wooden barn on the property was destroyed by fire last year, according to information provided by Mr. Wheeler.
Ancram and Livingston firefighters responded to render mutual aid. Copake firefighters stood by, Columbia County Fire Coordinators, State Police and Sheriff’s deputies assisted on scene. Firefighters were back in service 4:42 a.m. Saturday, March 1.
Stockport
Jason E. McCagg, 18, of Hudson was charged with two counts of second degree criminal contempt, a class A misdemeanor and unlawful possession of marijuana, a violation, by State Police from Livingston, February 22 at 5:15 p.m.
Troopers stopped the car Mr. McCagg was operating on Atlantic Avenue for a seatbelt violation. They found that he allegedly illegally possessed two firearms and marijuana.
Mr. McCagg allegedly intentionally disobeyed a Columbia County Family Court order to surrender any and all firearms after an order of protection was issued against him. He was issued tickets and ordered to appear in Stockport Court at a later date.
Valatie
Carl M. Babij, 63, of Valatie was charged with third degree assault, a class A misdemeanor, by Deputies Travis VanAlstyne and Joshua Oakes, February 16 at 9:36 p.m. Mr. Babij allegedly fought with a woman.
He was arraigned in Kinderhook Town Court and released on his own recognizance pending a return court appearance.