A man who intentionally set fire to a Tioga Downs horse barn on Thursday morning, killing more than two dozen racehorses and injuring at least one person, has been taken into custody, authorities said.

State Police responded to the structure fire just after 6:34 a.m. Thursday at the Tioga Downs Casino complex in Nichols. Troopers are investigating the case as an act of arson.

Boyd H. Fenton, 32, of Athens, Penn., was charged with third-degree arson, third-degree burglary, second-degree criminal mischief and second-degree assault, all felonies, state police said in a Thursday evening update.

Fenton was taken to the Tioga County Correctional Facility, police said.

Tioga County Emergency Services reported heavy fire in one of the facility's horse barns.

One person who entered the burning barn to try and save horses suffered second-degree burns and was transported to Robert Packer Hospital for treatment, state police said. 

The fire caused thousands of dollars in damage, according to state police. The investigation continues.

"We are deeply saddened by today’s tragedy, it was a loss no one could have imagined or expected," said Jeff Gural, chairman of American Racing & Entertainment. "It is an active investigation so we are not able to comment any further at this time. We would like to express our sincere gratitude for all of the first responders who rushed to our aid, we have a wonderful community, and we are honored to be a part of it.’

Also responding Thursday were the Nichols, Tioga Center, Waverly-Barton and Pennsylvania fire departments.