Children Rescued from Unsafe Home in Philadelphia
Two parents have been taken into custody after their two children, a five-year-old and an eight-month-old, were discovered living in filthy conditions with deceased animals in their Philadelphia home. The Philadelphia Police Department (PPD) described the scene as "unsafe and uninhabitable." The children were transported to a nearby hospital for medical evaluation, and the PPD Special Victims Unit is investigating their welfare.
Discovery During Federal Search Warrant Execution
According to ABC 6, the children were found when federal authorities executed a search warrant at the property in the 7100 block of Whitaker Street on Tuesday, July 7. Officials removed 38 cats and one dog from the house, and multiple dead animals were also discovered inside. The property was boarded up after authorities arrived, and investigators wearing hazmat suits inspected the premises.
Neighbors Describe Foul Odors and Suspicion
Neighbors told local media they had long noticed a bad smell from the home. One neighbor told NBC: "We used to smell all the time a bad smell. We wondered where is it coming from. But never thought something like this would be happening. That's crazy." Another said: "It's a shame something like that happened anywhere. That's pretty sad. I hate when people are vicious to animals."
FBI Presence and Rifle Removed
FBI agents surrounded the home for several hours during the inspection. A WPVI camera captured what appeared to be a rifle being removed from the home. Another neighbor told ABC 7 Eyewitness News: "Every time I would walk by, it would smell really bad, kitty litter and everything, and a horrible stench every time you would walk. You could smell it from across the street. I've seen one kid, I think, play with their neighbour. That's about it. I've never actually seen the people come out or anything."
Investigation Ongoing
Officials have not released additional details as the investigation remains open. The parents face child endangerment charges, and the welfare of the children and animals is under review.
