30 cats and kittens rescued from an abandoned boat off Owens Beach in Tacoma
Aug 8, 2026, 6:51 AM
(Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
(Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
The Tacoma Police Department rescued more than 30 cats and kittens from an abandoned boat.
On Thursday, Aug. 6, the Marine Services Unit responded to reports of an abandoned boat in the waters off Owen Beach.
The officers were surprised by what they found inside.
“Our Marine Services Unit officers immediately began coordinating with Animal Control and our Forensics Unit to safely rescue the animals. That mission continued today, and through a tremendous team effort, every cat and kitten is being safely removed from the boat,” the department shared.
Many of the cats were frightened and malnourished, requiring patience, care, and the department says it is taking a tremendous amount of teamwork.
The police department says crews will be out there for most of the day continuing their mission.
“We’re proud of our Marine Services officers, Animal Control officers, and Forensic Technicians for their compassion and dedication — not only to the people they serve, but to every member of our community who needs a helping hand,” they shared.
Officers have identified the owner of the boat through registration information and are working to get in contact with that person.
Animal Control Officers and their supervisor have been coordinating with the Humane Society throughout the day as the cats are transported into their care.
