More Than Two Dozen Animals Found Dead In Baltimore Fire
BALTIMORE (WJZ)—A Baltimore house fire leads to a shocking discovery on Tuesday night after more than two dozen animals are found dead.
Amy Yensi was more on why the Baltimore City Health Department is joining the investigation.
Firefighters were called to the 1800 block of Morrell Park Drive just before 7:30 p.m.
The people living in a southwest Baltimore home escape a fire, but the pets do not.
Officials say they recovered 12 Himalayan cats, 11 kittens and two dogs all dead at the scene.
Shaleah Cannon lives across the street from the home and says it's packed with pets.
"I've seen a lot of cats a lot of dogs. I know they've got like a pigeon thing in the back," she said.
Neighbors say they aren't surprised to see a dog crate amidst the rubble, stating the people who live there are known for taking in stray animals.
The Baltimore Animal Control Division say they are investigating whether this could've been an illegal breeding operation.
"The Health Department is sad to report that 25 animals perished last night in a house fire. We are investigating the reasons as to why so many animals were present," said Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen.
Officials are asking residents to report any illegal breeding or animal cruelty by calling 311.
No humans were hurt in the fire. Authorities say they are continuing their investigation.
