by Northville, NY – A devastating fire at a historic Long Island farm has left a community heartbroken, with dozens of animals killed and several family members injured after rushing into the flames to save them.
A Historic Barn Lost Within Minutes
A massive blaze tore through Wells Farm, a longtime family-owned property in Northville, destroying its main barn on Wednesday evening. According to authorities, the fire spread so rapidly through the old wooden structure that firefighters and family members had only seconds to react.
The Riverhead Police Department and six fire departments responded to the emergency after reports came in of a barn fully engulfed in flames. Despite the overwhelming effort, the barn could not be saved.
Family member Laura Wells described the experience as emotionally crushing.
“This is just devastating. I honestly don’t know what we’re going to do,” she told News 12 Long Island.
Family Members and First Responders Rushed Inside
As flames consumed the structure, relatives and responders sprinted inside to rescue as many animals as possible. Their efforts saved 19 pigs, but two pigs and dozens of chickens died before rescuers could reach them.
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Wells said her family risked everything in those frantic moments.
“My two granddaughters ended up in the hospital trying to rescue the pigs,” she said.
She also credited authorities, saying,
“Thank goodness for the police and the firefighters. They helped us get the pigs out of there.”
According to police, one officer and both granddaughters suffered smoke inhalation. All three were transported to Peconic Bay Medical Center for treatment.
Animal Welfare Group Called to Assess the Survivors
After the fire was contained, the animal advocacy organization Humane Long Island arrived on-site to evaluate the surviving animals. Many suffered from burns, cuts, and severe smoke exposure, the group said.
Some pigs required immediate medical care, while others were stabilized on the property as officials determined the extent of their injuries. The scene was described as chaotic and heartbreaking, with wounded animals scattered throughout the farmyard.
What Officials Know So Far About the Fire
Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the blaze. However, early findings show no indication of arson, according to Riverhead police. Fire marshals and investigators are expected to examine the remains of the barn over the coming days, though structural damage may make the process difficult.
The barn, described as a large, aging wooden structure that had been part of the property for generations, burned so intensely that it collapsed before firefighters could enter safely.
Community Support Growing After the Tragedy
The Wells family is now left with not only emotional devastation but also the overwhelming challenge of recovering from the loss of their animals, equipment, and a major portion of their farming operation.
Local neighbors, fellow farmers, and residents from across the East End have already begun offering support. Community members have reached out with supplies, emergency housing for surviving animals, and fundraising efforts to help the family get back on their feet.
For many in the area, Wells Farm is more than a business—it has been a familiar landmark and a trusted source of food, animal care, and local heritage. The fire, residents said, feels like a personal loss shared by the entire community.
The Road Ahead for Wells Farm
With the barn destroyed, animals injured, and family members recovering, the future remains uncertain for the Wells family. Rebuilding will require significant resources, emotional strength, and continued community support.
For now, the focus remains on caring for the surviving animals and ensuring that those injured in the rescue continue to recover.
As Laura Wells said, the family is unsure how they will move forward, but the overwhelming community response has provided a small measure of hope during an otherwise devastating moment.
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What do you think about the community response after this heartbreaking incident? Join the conversation at mikeandjonpodcast.com.
