Overview
- Officers found more than 30 cats and kittens living in unsafe conditions aboard an abandoned private vessel off Owen Beach, Tacoma, that was first spotted on Thursday.
- Tacoma Animal Control obtained a search warrant because the boat remained private property and the Marine Services Unit executed the multi-day extraction.
- Rescuers described the animals as frightened and malnourished and worked with forensic technicians and animal-control staff to remove cats from tight hiding places.
- All animals were transported to the Tacoma‑Pierce County Humane Society for medical assessment and care while investigators try to contact the boat’s registered owner.
- Police say no arrests have been made and the investigation into possible neglect or hoarding is ongoing, which could lead to fines or criminal charges depending on findings.