SAN BERNARDINO, CA – A heartbreaking scene unfolded in San Bernardino as two friends intervened to save kittens from being abandoned in the harsh desert heat. The incident, which occurred near 40th and Harrison Streets, saw a couple allegedly trying to discard the animals in an area where temperatures exceeded 100 degrees.
Elizabeth Lomeli and Kasandra Via were driving by when they noticed the couple attempting to leave the kittens behind. The friends quickly decided to confront the pair, who claimed they were taking the animals to a shelter. Unconvinced and concerned for the kittens’ welfare, Lomeli and Via offered to take them instead.
During the confrontation, the mother cat managed to flee, leaving the friends with the kittens. The couple, appearing irritated, left the scene with their cage. Lomeli and Via reported the incident to local animal services, leading to the rescue of the kittens by an out-of-state group.
Efforts to locate the mother cat are ongoing, with a local rescue organization, Cats of San Bernardino, actively searching the area. Despite using drones and distributing flyers, the mother cat remains missing. The rescue group has found other friendly cats in the area, raising concerns about possible widespread abandonment.
San Bernardino police have initiated a criminal investigation, as the abandonment of domestic animals is illegal and punishable by law. Authorities are working to identify the couple and determine potential charges.
The couple’s assertion that they were handling strays has been questioned, as strays typically avoid human contact. Additionally, local shelters generally require owners to attempt rehoming before surrendering pets.
This incident highlights the persistent problem of animal abandonment, prompting calls for better enforcement of animal protection laws. Community members and advocates urge pet owners to seek responsible rehoming options instead of abandoning animals.
As the case unfolds, the community hopes for the safe recovery of the mother cat and a resolution to prevent future cases of animal neglect.