MEDFORD, Long Island (PIX11) – One person and "numerous" cats were killed in a fire in Medford Monday morning, according to Suffolk County officials.
The fire broke out just after 7 a.m. at a residence on Dourland Road near Clifford Lane, killing one person, according to the Suffolk County Police Department. Flames fully engulfed the home, according to officials.
The fire was at a cat sanctuary, and many cats are in need of fostering now, according to the non-profit Strong Island Animal Rescue League.
Suffolk County police officials confirmed over 100 cats were present during the fire, some of which died and some survived.
"There are plenty of healthy cats," said Christopher J. Mehrman, chief fire marshal for the Town of Brookhaven.
The Suffolk County SPCA and Town of Brookhaven are working to rehome the surviving cats.
Officials are still investigating the cause of the fire and have not released any identifying information about the man who died.
Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter who has covered New York City since 2023 after reporting in Los Angeles for years. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter here.
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