'It was just shock': Family rescues animals in barn fire in Boston
BOSTON, N.Y. (WIVB) — A massive fire broke out early this morning at a popular farm in Boston, and the family rushed into the flames to save their beloved animals.
The harrowing moments began just before 3:30 a.m. on Monday. The Braymiller family, who owns and operates Stillwater Farm, live on the same property, yards away from the barn that caught fire. Several animals — including two pigs, goats, a horse, a miniature horse and a donkey — were stuck inside as flames broke out.
"I heard a sound, woke up and thought it might be the dogs. I heard another sound a little bit louder and I realized there was probably something going on. I got up, looked out the window and saw the barn fully engulfed in flames," Jay Braymiller said.
In a matter of minutes, the family called 911, rushed to the barn and went into the fire to save the animals.
"As soon as we opened the stall doors, a lot of the animals did come out. The horse was very reluctant and only came out when her favorite person, [my wife] Margaret, went into the stall. We could not see them. We only knew they were there by putting our hands out," Braymiller added.
One of the pigs, named Penny Lane, was terrified and squealing as the family tried to get her out. Braymiller had to grab her front legs and drag her out of harm's way in order to save her.
"It was just shock and adrenaline. We're probably still running on adrenaline," Braymiller continued.
The sheriff's office told the family an electrical issue caused the fire and the barn is a total loss.
Opened in 1991, the Stillwater Farm raises sheep and chickens for market, and features several other animals that are companion animals.
The Braymillers plan to rebuild their barn and be back better than ever before they host their farm dinner series over the summer. The dinners feature some of Western New York's buzziest chefs and all the money raised benefits children with cancer.
C.A.R.E. at Stillwater is a non-profit organization run by the family. The foundation hosts pediatric patients from Roswell Park and their families for several experiences, including tours and cooking demonstrations. All of the proceeds generated by the foundation go toward operational costs and capital expenses to make these experiences possible.
The family says it is grateful everyone made it out safely and for the help they've already received from the community.
"It was a terrible, terrible event, but it also shows what an amazing, supportive community we have here," Braymiller said.