Tragic Fire at Hillandale Farms in Connecticut Claims Lives of Thousands of Chickens
Jan. 30, 2023
The egg production community was shaken on the afternoon of Saturday, Jan. 28, when a devastating fire broke out at Hillandale Farms in Bozrah, Connecticut. A two-story chicken house, measuring 400 feet by 50 feet, was completely destroyed by the blaze, which resulted in the loss of as many as 100,000 egg-laying hens.
As the fire started to spread, the local fire department was immediately alerted and responded with three alarms, indicating a severe emergency. Despite their best efforts, the fire continued to burn for several hours, completely engulfing the chicken house. Fortunately, fire crews were able to contain the fire to a single building and prevent it from spreading to the other 13 chicken houses on the property.
The cause of the fire is still unknown, and an investigation is underway. No employees were injured in the fire, but the loss of the chickens is a significant blow to the egg production community. Connecticut Department of Agriculture officials do not expect the fire to result in a shortage of eggs or a significant increase in egg prices, but it will still take time for the affected farm to fully recover from the loss.
The loss of so many chickens is a tragedy that will not be soon forgotten. Hillandale Farms, like many other egg production facilities, provides a vital source of food for countless families, and the impact of this fire will be felt throughout the community. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the employees of Hillandale Farms, who have likely developed close relationships with the chickens under their care. The egg production industry has a long road ahead, but we are confident that it will rise to the challenge and continue to provide the essential nourishment that so many rely on.
