Police arrest wanted man, then discover 100 cats inside old bus

In Albuquerque, New Mexico, police apprehended 43-year-old Christopher Hart on October 28 for various outstanding warrants, including burglary and battery. During the arrest, they discovered that the vehicle used was an old bus housing over 100 cats. Due to the foul smell emanating from the vehicle, officers opened it and found dozens of cats, some of which had already died.

Animal welfare officers were immediately called to rescue the cats, many of whom were underweight and suffering from respiratory issues and eye injuries. Four kittens required bottle-feeding and specialized care.

After the initial rescue, another unexpected incident occurred when a garage nearby caught fire. Police evacuated neighboring homes while firefighters extinguished the blaze in about 15 minutes. No further injuries were reported. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. Hart's girlfriend, whose identity remains unknown, reportedly owned the bus and cats.

Police informed the public that the owner's identity was being withheld, and the animal welfare investigation was ongoing. Hart had been arrested the previous day for various offenses, but the arrest was not classified as an animal cruelty charge. Carolyn Ortega, Director of Animal Welfare, emphasized the priority of helping the rescued cats recover, noting that they still require veterinary care as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances that led to their living conditions.