MARTINSVILLE, Va. – UPDATE
Martinsville Fire Marshal Andy Powers has determined that the fire at the Martinsville Animal Shelter was accidental.
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Authorities confirmed the fire originated from a failure in a supplemental heating appliance located in the shelter’s kennel area.
This conclusion came after multiple site visits, interviews, document reviews, and a fire pattern analysis.
UPDATE
The Martinsville Animal Shelter has outlined ways the community can support them after a tragic fire last week that claimed the lives of three dogs and destroyed the shelter.
Officer Nicki Mabe, Martinsville’s animal control officer, took to social media to thank everyone who has stepped up to help.
The shelter was deemed a total loss, and Mabe is urging community members to assist in rebuilding efforts.
“There are so many who have shown up for us & none of it goes unnoticed,” she said. “It truly takes a village. Please help us get another shelter.”
If you’re looking for ways to give back, here’s how you can help:
- Martinsville City Animal Shelter’s Amazon wish list, featuring items that will go toward fosters temporarily housing animals.
- Monetary donations (please specify the purpose of your donation) can be made at:
- Carter Bank: The shelter has opened an account at Carter Bank and Trust, called the ‘Animal Shelter Fund’ for the City of Martinsville. Donations can be made in person. A link for people to donate remotely is in the works.
- PetSmart in Danville: The pet store is set to begin accepting donations this week.
- The Martinsville-Henry Co. SPCA: This animal shelter will be accepting donations at its location at 132 Joseph Martin Hwy. Please label your donations for Martinsville City Animal Control.
- Martinsville Police Department: Donations can be taken directly to the police department located at 55 W. Church St.
- You can also drop off donations at Rocky Mount Mayor Holland Perdue’s office (245 S. Main Street, Rocky Mount). Perdue said he has personally donated $500 and hopes to raise $1,000 to support recovery and rebuilding efforts.
- If you’re willing to foster, contact the Martinsville City Animal Shelter at 276-403-5309 with your availability.
“I’m not sure of a timeline for a new building, this is going to be a steep hill to climb,” Mabe said. “We wouldn’t be able to do it without our community and partners. Even if you’re not able to give right now, please share. Martinsville needs another shelter!”
ORIGINAL STORY
An early Tuesday morning fire at the Martinsville Animal Shelter building has resulted in the deaths of three dogs, according to the Martinsville Police Department.
Police were dispatched to the shelter at 300 Clearview Drive after a brush fire was reported in the area around 1 a.m.
Crews arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the roof of the building. Authorities have confirmed that the building was a total loss.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Martinsville Fire Marshal’s Office. If you have any information regarding this case, please contact Fire Marshal Andy Powers at 276-403-5205.
Stay with 10 News as this breaking news story continues to develop.