JOHNSTOWN, N.Y. - A barn fire in upstate New York has killed about 200 animals owned by a woman described as a "hoarder" when she was previously charged in an animal neglect case.

Authorities say they don't expect to ever determine the cause of the blaze that collapsed the 80-by-200 foot pole barn in Johnstown on Sunday. But they've ruled out arson, saying the origin was likely a heater.

Most of the animals were sheep and goats. Owner Robin Dillenbeck was in tears when she told the Gloversville Leader-Herald she also lost a couple of pigs and dogs and a llama.

Fulton County District Attorney Louise Sira says Thursday that Dillenbeck was a "hoarder" caring for more animals than she could handle when she was charged with a misdemeanor in 2008. That case was resolved when Dillenbeck agreed to keep fewer animals. Her phone is not listed.

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Times Union: A Charred Barn, Grim Toll and Big Question

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If anyone screams about why there was not fire protection devices and safeguards provided, please note that until we provide minimal levels of protection for humans, the animals can wait. This is the attitude felt by folks writing the fire and building codes... FYI.

CBz

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