Animals killed after heavy snow causes barn collapse at Dracut dairy farm

DRACUT, Mass. — A number of animals were killed when the roof of a barn collapsed at a dairy farm in Dracut during Tuesday’s powerful nor’easter, officials said.

Firefighters responding to a report of a partial roof collapse at Shaw Farm on New Boston Road found a barn that had crumbled to the ground under the weight of heavy, wet snow, according to the Dracut Fire Department.

Several cows were killed in the collapse. There were no reported injuries to people.

“Today we experienced one of life’s unexpected challenges. Thankfully, no staff members were hurt. Sadly, we did lose a few of our animals,” Shaw Farm said in a statement. “We are extremely grateful to everyone who came to our aid this afternoon including our staff, family, fellow farmers, neighbors, friends, and the Dracut Police and Fire Department.”

The farm also confirmed that their beloved donkey, Bailey, emerged unscathed and is OK.

Despite the collapse, the farm says its store and ice cream stand will be open for regular business Wednesday.

The family farm has been bottling milk and packaging ice cream since 1908.

Roof collapses are a major concern after the winter storm dumped more than two feet of snow in many towns and cities.

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