Full Breakdown
Cats Rescued from an Abandoned Sailboat in Puget Sound
8/16/2026, 7:44:06 AM
Rescue Operation Uncovers Over 60 Cats
Police in Tacoma, Washington, responded to reports of a 40-foot sailboat anchored off Owen Beach. Initial welfare checks found more than 30 cats, but the operation expanded over six days to a total of 60 cats and kittens, according to the Tacoma Police Department. An earlier local report described “more than 50 cats” rescued, indicating a slight discrepancy in the final count.
Volunteer Discovery and Early Rescue
Joggers Ashton Effertz and Jesse McConaha spotted a cat struggling in the cold water while on their Sunday run. They jumped into the water to retrieve the animal and alerted authorities. Their quick action prompted animal-control officers to return to the vessel and search the interior compartments for additional cats.
Police, Marine Services, and Animal Control Actions
The Tacoma Police Marine Services Unit coordinated with Animal Control and the department’s Forensics Unit to remove the animals safely. Police announced that all 60 cats had been “officially disembarked,” but warned that cats are adept at hiding and that further searches under a search warrant might be required. Officers also cautioned the public not to board the vessel without legal ownership and asked beachgoers to report any remaining cats.
Placement of Rescued Animals
More than 40 of the rescued cats were taken to the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County. The remaining animals were placed in foster homes throughout the area. No arrests or charges have been announced, and the investigation into the vessel’s owner remains active.
Verbatim Quotes
- “About three-quarters of the way back, or halfway back, is when everybody was pointing at the cats. We jumped over the side and down to the beach,” — Ashton Effertz
- “All I said was, ‘Are we going to do something about it?’ And I started stripping and jumped down,” — Jesse McConaha
- “It looks worse than what it is, but the water was so cold, you couldn’t feel the scratches. This will heal up. The cat will be alive,” — Jesse McConaha
- “I personally already have a cat in my studio. So, I do not have room, even though I’d love to,” — Jesse McConaha
- “I don’t have a cat maybe. Maybe?” — Ashton Effertz
