A barn fire in Estacada on Monday morning tragically killed four horses, including three mustangs and a pinto, while one horse and a donkey survived. The fire also destroyed feed, tack, hay, and shelter, with the cause still under investigation. Owner Laura Martin, who described the horses as her life and emphasized their role as rescue and healing animals, expressed deep sorrow over the loss. Despite the devastation, Martin is caring for the surviving animals and other livestock with the help of a local horse rescue that provided temporary shelter.

Friends, family, and the community have rallied around Martin, creating a GoFundMe to assist with recovery expenses. Martin shared how the horses helped her cope with depression and anxiety, highlighting the strong bond she had with them. Though overwhelmed by the generosity shown, she remains hopeful about possibly rescuing another horse in the future after she has had time to heal, grateful for the decade spent caring for her beloved animals.