FAIRVIEW — Officials in Buncombe County say 10 show horses were killed when their barn burned to the ground.

A caretaker who lived in an apartment inside B&B Stables managed to escape with minor injuries. Officials said no one else was hurt in Thursday night's fire.

Horse trainer John Toney leased space in the barn. He said he tried to free the frightened animals from the burning stable, but could only get one out before he was forced back by the smoke. Toney said a second horse managed to escape.

Jeff Tracz of the Asheville-Buncombe Arson Task Force said investigators began inspecting the debris Friday for a possible cause, paying particular attention to the electrical system and other utilities. He said witnesses were interviewed.