MADISON COUNTY, Ill. – Seven dogs were killed Friday evening when a van caught on fire on Interstate 270 in Madison County. Four dogs were rescued.
A transport van was carrying 11 dogs and on its way to New York when it caught on fire, according to Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue, a Texas-based animal rescue organization.
Illinois State Police reports that a Mercedes Transit Van was carrying several dogs in kennels when it caught on fire around 11:30 p.m. Friday, near the 11 milepost of I-270.
The van was stopped on the right shoulder of the highway when ISP troopers arrived to assist. Fire crews eventually put the fire out, and the driver escaped without any injuries. The driver was able to save four dogs, but seven others died.
“We are devastated by this loss. Words cannot express the grief we feel, nor the gratitude we have for our drivers—true heroes in this unimaginable moment—and for the many people who stepped in to help at the scene,” said Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue in a Facebook post.
Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue thanked the driver for efforts to save the dogs. The organization noted the four rescued dogs have been safely delivered to their adoptive families.
Investigators have not immediately disclosed any information on what may have led up to the fire.
The fire briefly shut down the interstate Friday evening into Saturday morning. ISP Troop 8 is handling the investigation.
