Post Messenger Recorder -

The Belleville Fire Department reported that at about 4:11 a.m., on June 18, 2021, the Belleville Fire Department was dispatched to the 9400 block of Christen Road, Town of Exeter, for a collapsed structure. Arriving units found a 100 foot by 80 foot metal livestock building collapsed. The barn contained 100 head of beef cattle, all of which were trapped inside. One animal was deceased and two cattle required extrication as they were injured and entrapped within the collapsed structure. The Verona and New Glarus Fire Departments assisted in rescuing the cattle, along with heavy equipment from a local private contractor. Damage is estimated in excess of $200,000.00. The cause of the collapse is undetermined at this time. There were thunderstorms in the area at the time of collapse, however the National Weather Service had not issued any severe weather warnings. This is a reminder that severe weather can develop with little warning.

Photo courtesy of Belleville Fire Department