Ohio Family Devastated as Fire Claims Barn and Dozens of Animals, Community Rallies in Support
Baltimore, OH – A Fairfield County, Ohio family is reeling after a devastating barn fire Sunday night claimed the lives of over 40 animals and destroyed a beloved family hobby farm. The peine family, of Baltimore, lost approximately 40 chickens and eight goats in the blaze.
Michael Peine described the shock of learning about the fire. “My daughter was out here with her phone, and we could see the flames… it was just shocking,” he saeid. While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, the family is focusing on rebuilding and remembering the animals they lost.
The Peine farm,affectionately referred to by Michael as a place “where I don’t golf,” evolved from a personal pastime into a cherished community hub. Nine years ago, his children founded a thriving goat club at school, transforming the farm into a popular destination for local children.
“Our street would just be covered in cars, and there would be 100 kids just out here playing, petting the goats,” Peine recalled fondly. “I would come out and answer any questions,and they’d feed them grain.” The experience clearly left a lasting impression on the young visitors.
Despite the immense loss, a small measure of hope emerged from the tragedy. One young goat, barely two weeks old, managed to escape the flames, though she sustained burns and is expected to lose her ear tips. “she bounces around still, but she got singed pretty good,” Peine said.
The outpouring of support from neighbors, the local church, and former students has been deeply moving for the family. “It’s really helped my heart,” Peine shared, overwhelmed by the community’s generosity. He noted the significant contributions from former members of the goat club, now grown, who are helping to rebuild.
To assist the Peine family with the ample costs of rebuilding, a GoFundMe campaign has been established: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-the-peine-family-after-barn-fire. The family is steadfast to rebuild and continue their tradition of sharing the joys of farm life with the community.
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