An unexpected rescue operation unfolded off the coast of Washington as police discovered 60 cats and kittens aboard a deserted sailboat. The Tacoma Police Department reported that the rescue began on August 6, when their Marine Services Unit responded to calls about an abandoned 40-foot sailboat near Owen Beach.
Initially, officers found over 30 frightened and undernourished cats living in hazardous conditions on the vessel. This number grew to 60 as the rescue extended over six days. The Marine Services Unit, along with Animal Control and the department’s Forensics Unit, collaborated to safely remove all the animals.
The operation was concluded with a light-hearted note from the police, “That’s a wrap! The final cat is off the boat. Fur real this time!” indicating the final count of rescued cats and kittens reached 60. They added that they were confident all animals had been removed but planned continued visits to the boat to ensure none remained hidden.
Police said, “While we believe we have safely removed all of the cats from the boat, as any cat owner knows, cats are exceptionally good at hiding.” Additional searches will be conducted under the authority of a search warrant.
Efforts are underway to relocate the legally registered vessel, and authorities cautioned local visitors and boaters around Owen Beach against attempting to rescue any other cats they might see. Any such sightings should be reported to Animal Control.
Police emphasized, “We know many animal lovers in our community want to help, and we appreciate the concern for these cats. However, this remains an active criminal case. Our teams are working hard to protect the animals while also protecting the integrity of the investigation.”
This warning was issued after Camille Sutherland, a private rescue volunteer, boarded the vessel overnight and rescued two more cats. Her unauthorized entry complicated the ongoing investigation into the boat’s owner.
Currently, there have been no arrests or charges announced in relation to the case. More than 40 of the rescued cats were taken to the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County, while others were placed in foster homes in the area.