UPDATE: (Nov. 19) - Port Orange Police are reporting that 34 dogs, one cat, and one rabbit were rescued from the house. As many as 9 dead animals were found in and around the house, but most did not appear to have died from the fire. Detectives and Port Orange Animal Control are still investigating possible charges.
Port Orange, FL - As many as 31 dogs and one cat were removed from a mobile home in Port Orange on Monday morning. Port Orange Police (POPD) responded to the structure fire at 431 Leslie Dr. along with the Port Orange Fire Department (POFD). Chief of Police Manual Marino said one person got out unharmed. First responders encountered several animals when they entered.
Two dogs were given oxygen at a local animal hospital. The preliminary investigation shows that "approximately" five animals died.
Port Orange Animal Control (POAC) removed all of the animals with the assistance of Volusia County Animal Services (VCAS). POPD detectives and POAC officers are investigating.
