579 Animals Die in Dallas Shopping Center Fire

A fire at Plaza Latina Bazaar caused severe smoke inhalation, killing hundreds of animals while firefighters battled the blaze for hours.

The fire broke out at Plaza Latina Bazaar in northwest Dallas on the morning of January 3, 2025, prompting a two-alarm response from firefighters.
While flames did not directly reach the pet shop, heavy smoke caused the deaths of 579 animals, including small birds, chickens, hamsters, two dogs, and two cats.
Firefighters attempted rescues and treated some animals on-site, but the majority succumbed to smoke inhalation; exotic animals were not present at the time.
The blaze caused significant structural damage, including a partial roof collapse, but no human injuries were reported as three individuals safely evacuated.
The cause of the fire is under investigation, and the shopping center, home to numerous small businesses, remains closed.