Tacoma officers discovered an abandoned private boat near Owen Beach housing more than 30 frightened and malnourished cats and kittens. After obtaining a search warrant, the Marine Services Unit, animal control and forensic technicians boarded the vessel and removed the animals. The cats were taken to the Tacoma-Pierce County Humane Society for stabilization, assessment and medical care. Investigators located owner information but were unable to reach the owner; no arrests have been made as the investigation continues.
Like a Studio Ghibli Scene: Tacoma Police Rescue 30+ Cats From Abandoned Boat Near Owen Beach
Photo Credit: Tacoma Police Department
A routine police response near Owen Beach in Tacoma, Washington, turned into a large animal rescue when officers discovered an abandoned, privately owned boat sheltering more than 30 cats and kittens in unsafe conditions.
Tacoma Police Public Information Officer John Correa described the scene to The News Tribune as unforgettable:
"The best way I can describe it is it looked like a Studio Ghibli movie."
Rescue and Response
Officers and animal control workers found the animals frightened and malnourished. Because the vessel remained the private property of an identified owner, Tacoma Animal Control secured a search warrant before anyone could legally board the boat to remove the cats.
Once the warrant was granted, Tacoma Police's Marine Services Unit, accompanied by animal control staff and forensic technicians, returned to the vessel and removed the animals. The cats and kittens were transported to the Tacoma-Pierce County Humane Society, where they are being stabilized, assessed, fed and treated.
Hazards and Welfare Concerns
Authorities noted that abandoned animals on a boat face unique dangers, including prolonged exposure to the elements, higher risk of injury, limited escape routes and difficulty accessing food, water and veterinary care. The presence of a large number of unspayed or unneutered cats also raises concerns about disease, overpopulation and the need for coordinated medical interventions.
Investigators located information connected to the boat's owner but were unable to reach him; no arrests have been announced as the investigation continues.
Tacoma police summed up the operation: "Through a tremendous team effort, every cat and kitten is being safely removed from the boat." Correa added a vivid image of the scene: "It was their boat, and they were all out and about roaming around on it."
The rescued animals remain in the care of the Tacoma-Pierce County Humane Society while authorities continue their inquiry into how the animals came to be living aboard the vessel and what long-term arrangements will be made for their care.
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