STORRS - A fire broke out in a UConn landscaping barn Monday night. The building was destroyed.
The fire started around 11 p.m. It was one of several used by UConn on Horse Barn Hill Road. UConn spokesperson Stephanie Reitz said the building dates to 1922, was adjacent to the Dairy Bar and several other buildings, but those structures weren't involved.
Because of a downed power line and its proximity to other buildings, fire crews decided to attack this fire from all four sides. As of 12:15 a.m. the fire was contained, but not considered completely out.
"The building has collapsed and is believed to be a total loss. The cause hasn't yet been determined, but that will be investigated," Reitz said.
There were no reports of injuries to people or livestock. Dairy cows and other animals are housed in barns elsewhere on Horsebarn Hill and were not endangered but precautions were taken to ensure their safety. The barn also contained landscaping equipment, tools, and office space.
Several surrounding towns provided mutual aid in fighting the fire and avoiding it spreading to other nearby buildings.
Nearby buildings are expected to operate on a normal schedule Tuesday but if you are coming to the area you may experience some detours and route changes as officials are still on scene and have certain areas blocked off.