Court Rules Against Brendan Dassey, Subject of ‘Making a Murderer’
December 9, 2017 by admin
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“Today’s ruling contravenes a fundamental and time-honored position of the United States Supreme Court: Interrogation tactics that may not be coercive when applied to adults are coercive when applied to children and the mentally impaired,” they said. “Indeed, when such tactics are applied to vulnerable populations, the risk of false confession grows intolerably.”
Friday’s decision was the latest sharp turn in a legal battle that has attracted national attention after the 2015 release of the Netflix series.
Mr. Dassey, now 28, was 16 when Ms. Halbach was killed. His lawyers have argued that he was mentally unfit, that his confession was involuntary and that he had inadequate legal representation.
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In August 2016, a federal judge in the Eastern District of Wisconsin overturned Mr. Dassey’s convictions and ordered that he be released within 90 days. But prosecutors appealed the decision, and the United States Court of Appeals, which blocked his release one day before he was set to be free, ordered him to remain in Columbia Correctional Institution in Portage, Wis., until his case was settled.
In June, Mr. Dassey then won a major victory when a three-judge panel of the federal appeals court ruled 2 to 1 that his confession was coerced. But the state appealed that decision to the full seven-judge court, which reversed the panel’s decision on Friday.
Brad Schimel, Wisconsin’s attorney general, said in a statement that he was gratified by the decision.
“Today’s decision is a testament to the talent of the attorneys at the Wisconsin Department of Justice who have worked tirelessly to deliver justice for the family and friends of Teresa Halbach over the last decade,” he said.
In a dissenting opinion, Judge Ilana Rovner said that Mr. Dassey was “subjected to myriad psychologically coercive techniques but the state court did not review his interrogation with the special care required by Supreme Court precedent.”
“His confession was not voluntary and his conviction should not stand, and yet an impaired teenager has been sentenced to life in prison,” she wrote. “I view this as a profound miscarriage of justice.”
Correction: December 8, 2017
An earlier version of this article misidentified the judge who wrote the majority opinion in the latest ruling involving the case of Brendan Dassey. It was David Hamilton, not Diane Wood.
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Trainers rushed to save terrified horses as flames closed in
December 9, 2017 by admin
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Among the charred landscape off Little Tujunga Canyon Road in Sylmar on Wednesday stood what remained of Rancho Padilla, where nearly 30 horses died in the Creek Fire. (Irfan Khan / Los Angeles Times)
Media: Los Angeles Times
BONSALL, Calif. (AP) — A routine day at an elite training center for racehorses transformed into terror and chaos in minutes, with hundreds of thoroughbreds stampeding out of their stalls in a desperate attempt to flee a Southern California wildfire that set their barns ablaze.
Turned loose by their trainers in a last-ditch effort to save their lives, the huge, muscular animals, their eyes wide with fear, charged through thick smoke and past dancing flames.
While hundreds made it to the safety of a nearby racetrack, others galloped in circles, unsure which way to run. Still others, too frightened to leave their paddocks, stayed there and died.
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Residents evacuate a horse along Nye Road as the Thomas fire approaches in Casita Springs in on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Residents evacuate a horse along Nye Road as the Thomas fire approaches in Casita Springs in on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Wally Skalij/LA Times Via Getty Images
Dramatic NASA photos show the Southern California wildfires from space during the week of Dec. 3, 2017.
Dramatic NASA photos show the Southern California wildfires from space during the week of Dec. 3, 2017.
Photo: NASA
A wildfire threatens homes as it burns along the 101 Freeway Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif. Raked by ferocious Santa Ana winds, explosive wildfires northwest of Los Angeles and in the city’s foothills burned a psychiatric hospital and scores of homes and other structures Tuesday and forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of people.
A wildfire threatens homes as it burns along the 101 Freeway Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif. Raked by ferocious Santa Ana winds, explosive wildfires northwest of Los Angeles and in the city’s
… more
Photo: Jae C. Hong/AP
Heavy smoke covers the seaside enclave of Mondos Beach beside the 101 highway as flames reach the coast during the Thomas wildfire near Ventura, California on December 6, 2017. California motorists commuted past a blazing inferno Wednesday as wind-whipped wildfires raged across the Los Angeles region, with flames triggering the closure of a major freeway and mandatory evacuations in an area dotted with mansions.
Heavy smoke covers the seaside enclave of Mondos Beach beside the 101 highway as flames reach the coast during the Thomas wildfire near Ventura, California on December 6, 2017. California motorists commuted
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Photo: MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images
A firefighter carries a water hose as a large painting saved from a wildfire is propped against an SUV in the Bel Air district of Los Angeles, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017. A dangerous new wildfire erupted in the Bel Air area of Los Angeles early Wednesday as firefighters battled three other destructive blazes across Southern California.
A firefighter carries a water hose as a large painting saved from a wildfire is propped against an SUV in the Bel Air district of Los Angeles, Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017. A dangerous new wildfire erupted in the
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Photo: Jae C. Hong/AP
Vehicles pass by a wall of flames as they drive on the 101 highway during the Thomas wildfire near Ventura, California on December 6, 2017. California motorists commuted past a blazing inferno Wednesday as wind-whipped wildfires raged across the Los Angeles region, with flames triggering the closure of a major freeway and mandatory evacuations in an area dotted with mansions.
Vehicles pass by a wall of flames as they drive on the 101 highway during the Thomas wildfire near Ventura, California on December 6, 2017. California motorists commuted past a blazing inferno Wednesday as
… more
Photo: MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images
A view of the Skirball Fire from southbound 405. The fire is tearing through Bel-Air and forcing mandatory evacuations in the area.
A view of the Skirball Fire from southbound 405. The fire is tearing through Bel-Air and forcing mandatory evacuations in the area.
Photo: Melissa Castro
A member of a fire team hand crew monitors embers to prevent fire from jumping to the west side of the 405 freeway, at the Skirball Fire near the Bel Aire area of Los Angeles, California, December 6, 2017.
A member of a fire team hand crew monitors embers to prevent fire from jumping to the west side of the 405 freeway, at the Skirball Fire near the Bel Aire area of Los Angeles, California, December 6, 2017.
Photo: ROBYN BECK/AFP/Getty Images
A fire truck is parked outside a mansion as smoke from a wildfire rises behind the property Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017, in the Bel-Air neighborhood of Los Angeles. A dangerous new wildfire erupted in the tony Bel Air area of Los Angeles early Wednesday as firefighters battled three other destructive blazes across Southern California.
A fire truck is parked outside a mansion as smoke from a wildfire rises behind the property Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017, in the Bel-Air neighborhood of Los Angeles. A dangerous new wildfire erupted in the tony Bel
… more
Photo: Jae C. Hong/AP
The sun rises through thick smoke beyond an infinity pool at a home on Casiano Road that was not damaged in a wildfire in the Bel Air district of Los Angeles Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017.
The sun rises through thick smoke beyond an infinity pool at a home on Casiano Road that was not damaged in a wildfire in the Bel Air district of Los Angeles Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017.
Photo: Reed Saxon/AP
Carolyn Potter tries to save her house but trips as she gather dirt to put out the Thomas Fire along on Nye Road in Casita Springs in Ventura County Tuesday.
Carolyn Potter tries to save her house but trips as she gather dirt to put out the Thomas Fire along on Nye Road in Casita Springs in Ventura County Tuesday.
Photo: Wally Skalij/LA Times Via Getty Images
Smoke from the Skirball Fire rises above the 405 freeway near the Bel Aire area of Los Angeles, California, December 6, 2017.
Smoke from the Skirball Fire rises above the 405 freeway near the Bel Aire area of Los Angeles, California, December 6, 2017.
Photo: ROBYN BECK/AFP/Getty Images
Los Angeles County firefighters battle a wildfire in the Lake View Terrace area of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
Los Angeles County firefighters battle a wildfire in the Lake View Terrace area of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
Photo: Chris Carlson/AP
A Los Angeles County firefighter puts water a burning house in a wildfire in the Lake View Terrace area of Los Angeles Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. Ferocious winds in Southern California have whipped up explosive wildfires, burning a psychiatric hospital and scores of other structures. Tens of thousands of people have been ordered evacuated.
A Los Angeles County firefighter puts water a burning house in a wildfire in the Lake View Terrace area of Los Angeles Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. Ferocious winds in Southern California have whipped up explosive
… more
Photo: Chris Carlson/AP
A wildfire consumes a home Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif. Raked by ferocious Santa Ana winds, explosive wildfires northwest of Los Angeles and in the city’s foothills burned a psychiatric hospital and scores of homes Tuesday and forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of people.
A wildfire consumes a home Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif. Raked by ferocious Santa Ana winds, explosive wildfires northwest of Los Angeles and in the city’s foothills burned a psychiatric hospital
… more
Photo: Jae C. Hong/AP
A wildfire burns along the 101 Freeway Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif.
A wildfire burns along the 101 Freeway Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif.
Photo: Jae C. Hong/AP
A firefighter pulls a water hose as a wildfires continues to burn Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Santa Paula, Calif. Raked by ferocious Santa Ana winds, explosive wildfires northwest of Los Angeles and in the city’s foothills burned a psychiatric hospital and scores of homes and other structures Tuesday and forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of people.
A firefighter pulls a water hose as a wildfires continues to burn Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Santa Paula, Calif. Raked by ferocious Santa Ana winds, explosive wildfires northwest of Los Angeles and in the city’s
… more
Photo: Jae C. Hong/AP
A Los Angeles County firefighter prepares to battle a hot spot on the “Creek Fire” in the Lake View Terrace area of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
A Los Angeles County firefighter prepares to battle a hot spot on the “Creek Fire” in the Lake View Terrace area of Los Angeles, Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
Photo: Chris Carlson/AP
Paul and Erica Mattesich embrace before sifting through rubble at their Ventura, Calif., home on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017. The family lost their house when the Thomas fire tore through their neighborhood on Colina Vista.
Paul and Erica Mattesich embrace before sifting through rubble at their Ventura, Calif., home on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017. The family lost their house when the Thomas fire tore through their neighborhood on
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Photo: Noah Berger/AP
Rubble and burned vehicles line properties scorched by the Thomas fire on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017, in Ventura, Calif.
Rubble and burned vehicles line properties scorched by the Thomas fire on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2017, in Ventura, Calif.
Photo: Noah Berger/AP
Dozens of homes are destroyed in a neighborhood in view of the Thomas fire from helicopter on December 5, 2017 in Ventura County, California.
Dozens of homes are destroyed in a neighborhood in view of the Thomas fire from helicopter on December 5, 2017 in Ventura County, California.
Photo: Brian Van Der Brug/LA Times Via Getty Images
Chino Valley Firefighters are unable to save several multi-million dollar homes along Cobblestone Drive near Foothill Road and North Victoria Avenue Tuesday midday after a fast-moving, wind-fueled wildfire swept into Ventura.
Chino Valley Firefighters are unable to save several multi-million dollar homes along Cobblestone Drive near Foothill Road and North Victoria Avenue Tuesday midday after a fast-moving, wind-fueled wildfire
… more
Photo: Al Seib/LA Times Via Getty Images
Ventura County Firefighter Aaron Cohen catches his breath after fighting to save multi-million dollar homes along Cobblestone Drive near Foothill Road and North Victoria Avenue Tuesday.
Ventura County Firefighter Aaron Cohen catches his breath after fighting to save multi-million dollar homes along Cobblestone Drive near Foothill Road and North Victoria Avenue Tuesday.
Photo: Al Seib/LA Times Via Getty Images
A firefighter battles the Thomas Fire along Highway 33 in Casita Springs in Ventura County Tuesday.
A firefighter battles the Thomas Fire along Highway 33 in Casita Springs in Ventura County Tuesday.
Photo: Wally Skalij/LA Times Via Getty Images
The Thomas Fire crests a mountain near Lake Casitas on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California, United States. The fire has consumed over 50,000 acres according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire protection.
The Thomas Fire crests a mountain near Lake Casitas on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California, United States. The fire has consumed over 50,000 acres according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire
… more
Photo: Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
A resident holds a leaking hose on his burning property during the Creek Fire on December 5, 2017 in Sunland, California. Strong Santa Ana winds are rapidly pushing multiple wildfires across the region, expanding across tens of thousands of acres and destroying hundreds of homes and structures.
A resident holds a leaking hose on his burning property during the Creek Fire on December 5, 2017 in Sunland, California. Strong Santa Ana winds are rapidly pushing multiple wildfires across the region,
… more
Photo: David McNew/Getty Images
A firefighter battles the Thomas Fire along Highway 33 in Casita Springs in Ventura County Tuesday.
A firefighter battles the Thomas Fire along Highway 33 in Casita Springs in Ventura County Tuesday.
Photo: Wally Skalij/LA Times Via Getty Images
A firefighter hoses down flareups at the two story Hawaiian Village Apartment complex that burnt to the ground during the Thomas wildfire in Ventura, California on December 5, 2017. Firefighters battled a wind-whipped brush fire in southern California that has left at least one person dead, destroyed more than 150 homes and businesses and forced tens of thousands to flee.
A firefighter hoses down flareups at the two story Hawaiian Village Apartment complex that burnt to the ground during the Thomas wildfire in Ventura, California on December 5, 2017. Firefighters battled a
… more
Photo: MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images
A firefighter battles the Thomas Fire along Highway 33 in Casita Springs in Ventura County Tuesday.
A firefighter battles the Thomas Fire along Highway 33 in Casita Springs in Ventura County Tuesday.
Photo: Wally Skalij/LA Times Via Getty Images
A house engulfed in flames as the Creek Fire burns in Los Angeles, California on December 5, 2017. The raging fire fueled by strong Santa Ana winds has burned more than 11,000 acres and caused the evacuation of 115,000 residents.
A house engulfed in flames as the Creek Fire burns in Los Angeles, California on December 5, 2017. The raging fire fueled by strong Santa Ana winds has burned more than 11,000 acres and caused the evacuation of
… more
Photo: Ronen Tivony/NurPhoto Via Getty Images
The Thomas Fire burns along a hillside near Santa Paula, California, on December 5, 2017. More than a thousand firefighters were struggling to contain a wind-whipped brush fire in southern California on December 5 that has left at least one person dead, sent thousands fleeing, and was choking the area with thick black smoke.
The Thomas Fire burns along a hillside near Santa Paula, California, on December 5, 2017. More than a thousand firefighters were struggling to contain a wind-whipped brush fire in southern California on
… more
Photo: KYLE GRILLOT/AFP/Getty Images
The Creek Fire burns in Los Angeles, California on December 5, 2017. The raging fire fueled by strong Santa Ana winds has burned more than 11,000 acres and caused the evacuation of 115,000 residents.
The Creek Fire burns in Los Angeles, California on December 5, 2017. The raging fire fueled by strong Santa Ana winds has burned more than 11,000 acres and caused the evacuation of 115,000 residents.
Photo: Ronen Tivony/NurPhoto Via Getty Images
Firefighters gather in front of a residential area as a wildfire burns along the 101 Freeway Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif.
Firefighters gather in front of a residential area as a wildfire burns along the 101 Freeway Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif.
Photo: Jae C. Hong/AP
Michael and Vonea McQuillam stand beside their house that was burnt to the ground during the Thomas wildfire in Ventura, California on December 5, 2017. Firefighters battled a wind-whipped brush fire in southern California that has left at least one person dead, destroyed more than 150 homes and businesses and forced tens of thousands to flee.
Michael and Vonea McQuillam stand beside their house that was burnt to the ground during the Thomas wildfire in Ventura, California on December 5, 2017. Firefighters battled a wind-whipped brush fire in
… more
Photo: MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images
Firefighters try to knock down a burning house during the Thomas wildfire in Ventura, California on December 5, 2017. Firefighters battled a wind-whipped brush fire in southern California that has left at least one person dead, destroyed more than 150 homes and businesses and forced tens of thousands to flee.
Firefighters try to knock down a burning house during the Thomas wildfire in Ventura, California on December 5, 2017. Firefighters battled a wind-whipped brush fire in southern California that has left at least
… more
Photo: MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images
Residents evacuate a horse along Nye Road as the Thomas fire approaches in Casita Springs in on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Residents evacuate a horse along Nye Road as the Thomas fire approaches in Casita Springs in on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Wally Skalij/LA Times Via Getty Images
Flames encroach on structures in the hills above Sylmar fire from helicopter in Los Angeles County, Calif., on Dec. 5, 2017.
Flames encroach on structures in the hills above Sylmar fire from helicopter in Los Angeles County, Calif., on Dec. 5, 2017.
Photo: Brian Van Der Brug/LA Times Via Getty Images
A burnt out car and house is seen during the Thomas wildfire in Ventura, California on December 5, 2017. Firefighters battled a wind-whipped brush fire in southern California that has left at least one person dead, destroyed more than 150 homes and businesses and forced tens of thousands to flee.
A burnt out car and house is seen during the Thomas wildfire in Ventura, California on December 5, 2017. Firefighters battled a wind-whipped brush fire in southern California that has left at least one person
… more
Photo: MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images
A house burns during the Thomas wildfire in Ventura, California on December 5, 2017. Firefighters battled a wind-whipped brush fire in southern California that has left at least one person dead, destroyed more than 150 homes and businesses and forced tens of thousands to flee.
A house burns during the Thomas wildfire in Ventura, California on December 5, 2017. Firefighters battled a wind-whipped brush fire in southern California that has left at least one person dead, destroyed more
… more
Photo: MARK RALSTON/AFP/Getty Images
Horses are evacuated along Osborne street at the Creek fire Tuesday morning.
Horses are evacuated along Osborne street at the Creek fire Tuesday morning.
Photo: David Crane/AP
Firefighters try to prevent a portion of The Creek Fire from jumping the 210 freeway in Sylmar on December 5, 2017.
Firefighters try to prevent a portion of The Creek Fire from jumping the 210 freeway in Sylmar on December 5, 2017.
Photo: Genaro Molina/LA Times Via Getty Images
Jessica Farrell evacuates her mother’s dog Hazel as the Creek Fire threatened homes at the end of Esko Avenue in Sylmar on December 5, 2017.
Jessica Farrell evacuates her mother’s dog Hazel as the Creek Fire threatened homes at the end of Esko Avenue in Sylmar on December 5, 2017.
Photo: Genaro Molina/LA Times Via Getty Images
Remnants of a burned down a home as a brush fire continues to threaten other homes on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Remnants of a burned down a home as a brush fire continues to threaten other homes on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
A firefighter hoses down smoldering debris in Ventura, Calif., Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. Ferocious Santa Ana winds raking Southern California whipped explosive wildfires Tuesday, prompting evacuation orders for thousands of homes.
A firefighter hoses down smoldering debris in Ventura, Calif., Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. Ferocious Santa Ana winds raking Southern California whipped explosive wildfires Tuesday, prompting evacuation orders for
… more
Photo: Daniel Dreifuss/AP
Greg Smith stands amid the ruins of his home after the Thomas fire swept through Ventura, Calif., Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
Greg Smith stands amid the ruins of his home after the Thomas fire swept through Ventura, Calif., Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
Photo: Daniel Dreifuss/AP
A gust of wind blows off flames burning near a home as a wildfire burns in Ventura, Calif., on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. Ferocious winds in Southern California have whipped up explosive wildfires, burning a psychiatric hospital and scores of other structures.
A gust of wind blows off flames burning near a home as a wildfire burns in Ventura, Calif., on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. Ferocious winds in Southern California have whipped up explosive wildfires, burning a
… more
Photo: Jae C. Hong/AP
A wildfire moving with the wind sends embers all over the place in residential neighborhoods north of on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
A wildfire moving with the wind sends embers all over the place in residential neighborhoods north of on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
A man waters the front of a building and takes a picture of a flame getting closer to homes on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
A man waters the front of a building and takes a picture of a flame getting closer to homes on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
Strangers band together to help put out a palm tree on fire and stop it from burning homes as brush fire move to threaten structures on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Strangers band together to help put out a palm tree on fire and stop it from burning homes as brush fire move to threaten structures on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
A mansion burns as a brush fire continues to threaten homes on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
A mansion burns as a brush fire continues to threaten homes on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
Flames rise near a home as a wildfire burns in Ventura, Calif., on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. Ferocious winds in Southern California have whipped up explosive wildfires, burning a psychiatric hospital and scores of other structures.
Flames rise near a home as a wildfire burns in Ventura, Calif., on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. Ferocious winds in Southern California have whipped up explosive wildfires, burning a psychiatric hospital and scores of
… more
Photo: Jae C. Hong/AP
A house is consumed by a wildfire Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif. Authorities said the blaze broke out Monday and grew wildly in the hours that followed, consuming vegetation that hasn’t burned in decades.
A house is consumed by a wildfire Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif. Authorities said the blaze broke out Monday and grew wildly in the hours that followed, consuming vegetation that hasn’t burned in
… more
Photo: Jae C. Hong/AP
A man rides his motorcycle past a home consumed by a wildfire Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif.
A man rides his motorcycle past a home consumed by a wildfire Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif.
Photo: Jae C. Hong/AP
A burned-out car is seen amid the ruins of a home after the Thomas fire swept through Ventura, Calif., Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
A burned-out car is seen amid the ruins of a home after the Thomas fire swept through Ventura, Calif., Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
Photo: Daniel Dreifuss/AP
Firefighters put out a flames burning a home Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif. Authorities said the blaze broke out Monday and grew wildly in the hours that followed, consuming vegetation that hasn’t burned in decades.
Firefighters put out a flames burning a home Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif. Authorities said the blaze broke out Monday and grew wildly in the hours that followed, consuming vegetation that hasn’t
… more
Photo: Jae C. Hong/AP
Remnants of a burned down a home as a brush fire continues to threaten other homes on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Remnants of a burned down a home as a brush fire continues to threaten other homes on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
A home is destroyed by brush fire as Santa Ana winds help propel the flames to move quickly through the landscape on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
A home is destroyed by brush fire as Santa Ana winds help propel the flames to move quickly through the landscape on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
Flames consume vehicles as a wildfire rages in Ventura, Calif., on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
Flames consume vehicles as a wildfire rages in Ventura, Calif., on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
Photo: Noah Berger/AP
The sun breaks through dense smoke over fire-damaged structures in Ventura, Calif., Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. Ferocious Santa Ana winds raking Southern California whipped explosive wildfires Tuesday, prompting evacuation orders for thousands of homes.
The sun breaks through dense smoke over fire-damaged structures in Ventura, Calif., Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. Ferocious Santa Ana winds raking Southern California whipped explosive wildfires Tuesday, prompting
… more
Photo: Daniel Dreifuss/AP
A firefighter stands under windswept palm trees as he hoses down smoldering debris in Ventura, Calif., Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. Ferocious Santa Ana winds raking Southern California whipped explosive wildfires Tuesday, prompting evacuation orders for thousands of homes.
A firefighter stands under windswept palm trees as he hoses down smoldering debris in Ventura, Calif., Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017. Ferocious Santa Ana winds raking Southern California whipped explosive wildfires
… more
Photo: Daniel Dreifuss/AP
Smoke rises behind a leveled apartment complex as a wildfire burns in Ventura, Calif., on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
Smoke rises behind a leveled apartment complex as a wildfire burns in Ventura, Calif., on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
Photo: Noah Berger/AP
Teracota Warrior replicas, garden decorations, sit on the side of the fence that isn’t burning, on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Teracota Warrior replicas, garden decorations, sit on the side of the fence that isn’t burning, on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
A home burns on a hillside overlooking on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
A home burns on a hillside overlooking on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
A brushfire moving with the wind sends embers all over the place in residential neighborhoods north of on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
A brushfire moving with the wind sends embers all over the place in residential neighborhoods north of on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
Firefighters work to put out flames after it has engulfed a home on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Firefighters work to put out flames after it has engulfed a home on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
Hawaiian Gardens apartment complex on fire as brush fires move quickly with Santa Ana winds on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Hawaiian Gardens apartment complex on fire as brush fires move quickly with Santa Ana winds on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
Hawaiian Gardens apartment complex on fire as brush fires move quickly with Santa Ana winds on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Hawaiian Gardens apartment complex on fire as brush fires move quickly with Santa Ana winds on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
A man prepares to evacuate his home as a wildfire burns along a hillside near homes in Santa Paula, California, on December 5, 2017.
A man prepares to evacuate his home as a wildfire burns along a hillside near homes in Santa Paula, California, on December 5, 2017.
Photo: RINGO CHIU/AFP/Getty Images
Evacuation under way on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Evacuation under way on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
Fire authorities gather at the command center near Hansen Dam in San Fernando Valley to work on a plan to fight the wildfire burning though the area in Los Angeles on Tuesday Dec. 5, 2017.
Fire authorities gather at the command center near Hansen Dam in San Fernando Valley to work on a plan to fight the wildfire burning though the area in Los Angeles on Tuesday Dec. 5, 2017.
Photo: Richard Vogel/AP
The Thomas wildfire blaze broke out Monday, December 4th and grew wildly to more than 48 square miles in Ventura County.
The Thomas wildfire blaze broke out Monday, December 4th and grew wildly to more than 48 square miles in Ventura County.
Photo: Twitter / @VCFD_PIO
The Thomas wildfire blaze broke out Monday, December 4th and grew wildly to more than 48 square miles in Ventura County.
The Thomas wildfire blaze broke out Monday, December 4th and grew wildly to more than 48 square miles in Ventura County.
Photo: Twitter / @VCFD_PIO
The Thomas wildfire blaze broke out Monday, December 4th and grew wildly to more than 48 square miles in Ventura County.
The Thomas wildfire blaze broke out Monday, December 4th and grew wildly to more than 48 square miles in Ventura County.
Photo: Twitter / @VCFD_PIO
An apartment complex burns as a wildfire rages in Ventura, Calif., on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
An apartment complex burns as a wildfire rages in Ventura, Calif., on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017.
Photo: Noah Berger/AP
Remnants of a burned down a home as a brush fire continues to threaten other homes on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Remnants of a burned down a home as a brush fire continues to threaten other homes on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
A firefighter battles a wildfire as it burns along a hillside near homes in Santa Paula, California, on December 5, 2017.
A firefighter battles a wildfire as it burns along a hillside near homes in Santa Paula, California, on December 5, 2017.
Photo: RINGO CHIU/AFP/Getty Images
Firefighters battle a wildfire as it burns along a hillside near homes in Santa Paula, California, on December 5, 2017.
Firefighters battle a wildfire as it burns along a hillside near homes in Santa Paula, California, on December 5, 2017.
Photo: RINGO CHIU/AFP/Getty Images
A wildfire burns along a hillside near homes in Santa Paula, California, on December 5, 2017.
A wildfire burns along a hillside near homes in Santa Paula, California, on December 5, 2017.
Photo: RINGO CHIU/AFP/Getty Images
Brandon Baker, center and Prescott McKenzie, right, take cover from the flying embers during a brush fire on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Brandon Baker, center and Prescott McKenzie, right, take cover from the flying embers during a brush fire on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
Smoke blows out of the burning palm trees as brush fire threaten homes on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Smoke blows out of the burning palm trees as brush fire threaten homes on December 5, 2017 in Ventura, California.
Photo: Marcus Yam/LA Times Via Getty Images
Workers at San Luis Rey Downs said an estimated 30 to 40 horses perished Thursday in the wildfire still raging out of control north of San Diego on Friday. At least two stable workers were injured, and their conditions were not immediately known.
Trainers described a terrifying scene that erupted at the facility Thursday afternoon, recalling how only minutes after smelling smoke, they saw flames roaring down a nearby hillside.
“I was heading to my barn to drop my equipment off and I smell smoke,” trainer Kim Marrs said Friday as she stood outside the still-smoldering facility. “Within two minutes, I look up the hill and you could just see it come up over the ridge.”
She and others tried to turn back the flames with hoses and fire extinguishers before firefighters arrived. But when embers from burning palm trees began igniting the roofs of barns, they realized they had no other alternative than to turn loose the approximately 450 horses stabled there.
“The next thing, there’s a stampede of 100 horses coming through here,” said Marrs, who was trying to lead one of the horses she trains, a 5-year-old named Spirit World, through a tunnel. “We almost got trampled to death.”
At one of the center’s many barns, video showed a group of trainers frantically tearing down a wooden fence and shouting at their horses to run.
One large black horse, its forelocks wrapped in white leggings, bolted toward safety but then spooked by the burning palm trees, turned and fled back toward its stable. Scores of others charged through thick smoke to safety.
Trainer Cliff Sise suffered burns on his chest and arm trying to get a 2-year-old filly named Scat Home Lady out of her stable. She wouldn’t budge, and he said she burned to death there.
“She was one of my favorites,” Sise said as he sat outside the facility.
Trainer Jerry Contreras said one of his best friends, a fellow trainer, was hospitalized.
“He was trying to get his horses out and was burned,” Contreras said.
At San Luis Rey Downs, the phone rang unanswered and the owners quickly barred outsiders from the sprawling facility.
It is Southern California’s premier training center for thoroughbreds, with a competition-sized racetrack, a smaller one for training, numerous trails for horses to relax on and even a swimming pool for them to work out in.
The center can house as many as 500 horses and states proudly on a sign out front that it is the “Home of Azeri,” racing’s U.S. Horse of the Year in 2002.
Other thoroughbreds that have trained there include Kentucky Derby winner Ferdinand.
The facility sits among rolling hills, picturesque vineyards and farms down a winding, two-lane road just a few miles off busy Interstate 15, the main thoroughfare connecting Southern California to Las Vegas.
The horses that fled were quickly rounded up, and many were taken to the nearby Del Mar racetrack, where a veterinary center was set up for the injured.
The tragedy resulted in an outpouring of support from the racing community, with Southern California’s Los Alamitos Race Course canceling its daytime thoroughbred program Friday out of respect.
The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club and the Stronach Group, owners of San Luis Rey Downs, have set up a GoFundMe account to help pay for hospital and rehab costs.
Santa Anita racetrack officials in the Los Angeles suburb of Arcadia collected clothes and other items for stable workers who lost their possessions.
“I lost everything. Forty years. I lost all my tack, all my machines, my webbings. It was all burned. My whole livelihood. I feel like quitting,” the 66-year-old Sise said.
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Rogers reported from Los Angeles. AP Racing Writer Beth Harris in Los Angeles contributed to this story.