Fire sweeps northern Indiana barn, killing dozens of cattle

WAKARUSA, Ind. (AP) - A fire that swept a northern Indiana barn, killing up to about 90 cattle, may have been started by machinery parked inside the building, officials said.

Firefighters with the Harrison Township Fire Department responded Tuesday morning to the barn fire east of the Elkhart County town of Wakarusa.

Fire Chief Culvin Martin said firefighters battled the blaze for about an hour before getting it under control, and the barn was left heavily damaged, The Elkhart Truth reported.

He said the fire is believed to have been started by a skid loader that was parked inside the barn.

Dennis Martin, the owner of the 160-acre property, said he believed that between 80 and 90 cattle perished in the fire, although some were rescued.

'œThe community has been a great help,'ť he said. 'œWe're grateful for the firefighters, church members and neighbors who've stepped up to help.'ť