The 220-year-old Meadowbrook Equestrian Center in Naples, Maine, was devastated by a fast-spreading fire that began from a nearby UTV and engulfed the barn and stable. Fortunately, no horses were harmed as none were inside the barn at the time, though two horses were in the stable. The fire destroyed hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of equipment, leaving only a mostly-burnt saddle intact. The emotional impact on owner Jennifer Green and instructor Matthew Balajaron was profound, with both expressing heartbreak over the loss of a cherished and healing space.

The fire’s rapid spread was exacerbated by Maine’s ongoing drought and high fire danger, which has left fire ponds dry and made firefighting efforts more difficult. Despite the overwhelming loss, the community’s support has been a source of comfort. Balajaron, who spent years restoring the barn with his brother, remains hopeful about recovering from this tragic event.