12 cats killed in fire at home in Westmoreland County

ROSTRAVER TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Twelve cats died in a fire early Friday morning at a home in Rostraver Township, the woman who lives there told Channel 11 News.

It was shortly before 4 a.m. when firefighters were called to the blaze along Route 51, near Vernon Drive. Smoke could be seen when Channel 11 News got to the scene, and part of the structure was completely charred.

Wendi Kraemer, the woman who lives there, was able to get out safely, but 12 cats that were in the front portion of the home were killed. There were other animals that survived, and some of them got loose.

“The cats that we lost, it’s horrible because they were like our kids,” Kraemer said.

Kraemer said she’s been building up Angels Journey Home Animal Rescue at her home over the last seven years.

Rostraver Township officials said they’ve questioned Kraemer in the past about her animal rescue after having some concerns. The zoning department said it’s gathering information and evidence and will be conducting an investigation into what was taking place on this property.

The cause of the fire is under investigation. Fire officials said it doesn’t appear to be suspicious.

RAW: Fire badly damages home in Rostraver Township

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