Hopatcong Home with 40 Cats Catches Fire, 22 Animals Saved

Police in Hopatcong said a lit cigarette tossed in a trash can in a home filled with approximately 40 cats is what caused the blaze that killed dozens of the animals.

A man and his mother-in-law living in the home on Akron Way told authorities that they had dozens of cats living with them as firefighters were extinguishing the Sunday night fire.

Residents began evacuating prior to the arrival of emergency services when the mother-in-law, an elderly woman who has Alzheimer’s disease, appeared distressed and tried to re-enter the house. Responders managed to rescue 22 cats, 20 of which are now up for adoption.

Police Lt. Thomas Kmetz told reporters that he estimates between six and 12 cats ran out of the house while the fire was being handled. A firefighter twisted his knee extinguishing the flames and another received several cat scratches.

Those who are interested in adopting one of the displaced cats may call the pound at 973-479-3659 for more information.

Image via Shutterstock.