Dozens of animals killed in house fire

FOREST HILL, Md. (WMAR) - Provided

The Harford County Department of Inspections, Licenses and Permits (DILP), Division of Animal Control and Division of Housing Services are investigating a possible case of animal hoarding at a Forest Hill residence. County officials were notified of a number of deceased animals at a home following a fire incident Monday evening.

Monday, August 27, 2012 shortly after 11 p.m., firefighters from the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company were summoned to the home of Donald and Nancy Kirk, at 2447 Rocks Road. Following fire suppression efforts, firefighters discovered a number of deceased cats and other animals in the home. Subsequently, fire officials requested the assistance of DILP and Animal Control in removing the deceased animals from the property.

Animal Control officers, working in cooperation with the Department of Natural Resources, have removed more than 30 dead animals and reptiles from the one-story modular home. Among the deceased animals was a fox, which was found in a refrigerator.

Additionally, at least a dozen cats that died as a result of the fire were buried on the property early Tuesday, August 28, prior to the arrival of county officials.

Officials removed six cats, two dogs, nine raccoons and three turtles which were found alive on the property. The animals were transported to the Harford County Humane Society for a check-up and safekeeping. The raccoons will be euthanized.

The animals were found between the modular home and a nearby mobile home which had been converted into a storage building.

Also assisting in the investigation of the alleged case of animal hoarding is the Harford County
Health Department.

No charges have been filed at this time against the property owners. The investigation of the incident is continuing.