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Tacoma animal rescue from abandoned boat

Updated 2 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-08-14 04:13 UTC → 2026-08-15 15:55 UTC · added removed

Tacoma police and animal control officers conducted a rescue operation to save more than 30 approximately 60 cats and kittens from an abandoned vessel 40-foot sailboat anchored near Owen Beach. The animals were found Beach in unsanitary conditions and were described as malnourished and frightened. Puget Sound. The rescue involved operation, which began on August 6, 2026, was initiated following reports of a coordinated effort between deserted vessel to the Tacoma Police Department’s Marine Services Unit, Unit. The rescue involved a coordinated effort between marine services, animal control, and forensic technicians. Following reports of the abandoned boat, authorities obtained After obtaining a search warrant to board the vessel. vessel, authorities discovered that the number of animals was significantly higher than the initial report of 30, as many felines were hiding in difficult-to-reach areas. The animals were described as malnourished and frightened. The cats were transported to the Tacoma-Pierce County Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County for medical treatment. treatment and recovery. An investigation is currently underway to identify and locate the boat’s owner to and determine if how the incident involves colony formed. Authorities are looking into potential animal hoarding cruelty or cruelty. As the operation progressed, the number of rescued animals increased to approximately 60 cats and kittens found on the 40-foot sailboat. neglect charges, though no criminal charges have been filed at this time. Derek Hieb, a 62-year-old rigger who had been living on the boat, previously told local media that the colony may have originated from a single cat he received during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hieb He stated he left the vessel shortly before it was seized after a cat bite prevented him from rowing back to the boat. While police are investigating the incident, no arrests or criminal charges have been filed at this time. Authorities have warned the public not to board the vessel without authorization to avoid interfering with the investigation or risking safety.

Versions

  1. 2026-08-15 15:55 UTC Tacoma animal rescue from abandoned boat
  2. 2026-08-14 04:13 UTC Tacoma animal rescue from abandoned boat
  3. 2026-08-12 04:21 UTC Tacoma animal rescue from abandoned boat

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