Firefighters in Virginia say a fire that damaged eight classrooms at Forest Middle School was caused by an escaped python that knocked over a heat lamp, according to UPI Odd News.
The Forest Fire Department said crews were called to the school at 12:31 a.m. Thursday after a fire alarm sounded. When they arrived, the sprinkler system had already gone off.
Firefighters said they entered a classroom and found an 8-foot python inside. The department said crews safely secured the snake in a temporary holding area until the owner arrived and took it back.
Bedford County Public Schools said the fire and water damage will keep the eight affected classrooms closed for repairs, but the damage will not delay the start of the school year on Aug. 19. Officials said alternate classroom locations will be arranged inside the building.
