A massive fire has engulfed the Happy Cat Sanctuary in Medford, Long Island, killing about 100 cats and one person, according to Suffolk County police. The victim has not been officially identified, but residents in the area say the shelter's owner, Chris Arsenault, was seen running in and out of the building trying to save his animals.
At the time of the tragedy, the shelter was home to over 300 cats, rescued from abuse, neglect and severe hoarding situations. The fire broke out around 7:15 a.m. Monday morning, and while the investigation continues to determine the cause, reports from ABC7 Eyewitness News suggest that Arsenault lost his life trying to save the animals he had dedicated his life to keeping safe.
Witnesses said Arsenault never stopped rescuing his cats. "He kept going in and out of the house to get them out, until at one point he just wouldn't come out anymore," said Lisa Jaeger, a volunteer at the Happy Cat Sanctuary.
Despite the tragedy, about 150 cats managed to survive under the structures built by Arsenault and are believed to be safe. “Chris dedicated his life to rescuing and caring for hundreds of cats,” said Frank Floridia of the Strong Island Animal Rescue League.
Arsenault's story with cat rescue began after a personal tragedy. In 2006, he lost his 24-year-old son, Eric, in a tragic motorcycle accident. After this difficult moment, he came across over 30 sick kittens and decided to help them. This experience made him realize that rescuing cats was his mission in life, leading to the creation of Happy Cat Sanctuary.
The tragedy that struck this shelter has shocked the animal-loving community, with many people expressing their grief and gratitude for Arsenault's extraordinary sacrifice.
