36 Horses Killed in Barn Fire at Former 'Big Lick' Stables in North Carolina

Tragedy strikes Callicutt Stables, a longtime hub of the controversial 'Big Lick' walking horse industry

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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A devastating fire broke out at Callicutt Stables in Seagrove, North Carolina, killing 36 Tennessee walking horses. The 70-year-old wooden barn was engulfed in flames, with only 7 of the 43 horses inside able to escape. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Randolph County Fire Marshal's Office. The loss is devastating for the Callicutt family and other owners who had horses boarded at the facility, many of which were show-quality animals representing years of training and investment.

Why it matters

The Callicutt Stables was a longtime center of the 'Big Lick' walking horse industry, which has faced longstanding allegations of animal cruelty due to the use of abusive training methods to achieve an unnaturally high-stepping gait. The tragic fire raises questions about the safety and welfare practices in this controversial industry.

The details

In three separate incidents since July, police said Walker Reed Quinn has been damaging Waymo vehicles in San Francisco's SoMa neighborhood by removing and swinging his belt, placing a cone on the dome and sensors of the car, damaging the tires and driver's side mirror, and stomping on the windshield.

  • The fire broke out around 12:45 p.m. on February 15, 2026.
  • The Year of the Fire Horse in the Chinese astrological calendar cycle formally begins on February 17, 2026.

The players

Callicutt Stables

A longtime hub of the 'Big Lick' walking horse industry in Seagrove, North Carolina, where the devastating fire occurred.

Clant Seay

The founder of the Citizens Committee Against Big Lick Animal Cruelty, who was a prominent anti-soring activist until his death in 2023.

The Walking Horse Report

A publication that has been described as the advocacy voice for the 'Big Lick' walking horse industry.

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What they’re saying

“It's awful. It's just awful. It's undescribable. Anyone who loves horses — it rips your heart out, it really does.”

— Mike Primm, Horse owner (WFMY)

“While thankfully no human lives were lost, several horses were tragically lost in the incident. The Walking Horse Report family joins the industry in keeping John, Ann, Landon, Luke and the entire Callicutt Stables team in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. They, along with their customers, are respected and valued members of the Walking Horse community, and their many friends across the industry stand ready to support them.”

— The Walking Horse Report (The Walking Horse Report)

What’s next

The Randolph County Fire Marshal's Office is continuing to investigate the cause of the fire.

The takeaway

This tragic fire highlights the ongoing concerns about animal welfare and safety practices within the 'Big Lick' walking horse industry, which has long been criticized for its use of abusive training methods. The loss of these show horses is devastating, but it also raises questions about whether this could be an opportunity for the industry to re-evaluate its practices and prioritize the wellbeing of the animals.