Dozens Of Neglected Pets Pulled From Rhode Island Home Tied To Woman’s Tragic Passing
Sometimes, the news hits you in the gut. When I heard this one, my heart just sank.
Central Falls, Rhode Island, has recently seen a heartbreaking mix of tragedy and hope, where the loss of a young woman revealed a hidden world of animals living in desperate need.
Authorities found 24-year-old Erica Bader unresponsive in the woods of Pawtucket. Investigators later determined her body had been moved there from a nearby Central Street home.
That same home turned out to be a scene no animal lover could easily shake off.
When the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RISPCA) arrived, they were met with chaos.
Inside the small home were 50 animals, including 46 cats, at least two of which were pregnant, and four dogs. Many were malnourished, frightened, or living in filth.
Wayne Kezirian, RISPCA president, shared in an interview:
“It’s in terrible condition. These animals didn’t have food and water, they have apparently been fed but the place is strewn with feces, and it reeks of ammonia, tough situation.”
When people take in too many animals, it often gets out of hand, leaving overwhelming messes that make the space almost unlivable.
Wayne continued:
“They don’t seem to recognize that they’re over their head, which is common, and have a tremendous amount of feces to the point where we’re wearing masks and we’re uncomfortable when we’re in there.”
The sight was overwhelming, but the rescue team pressed on, carefully removing each animal and transporting them to RISPCA’s East Providence facility.
Once there, the focus shifted to medical checkups, safe spaces, and basic comforts: clean water, food, blankets, and the first moments of peace many of these animals had ever known. Wayne said:
“This pretty much doubles our capacity of in-shelter cats overnight, so we’re pretty much scrambling.”
Staff and volunteers have been working around the clock, making sure every animal has a warm place to sleep and someone to offer attention.
The community is also stepping up to help the shelter. RISPCA has created a wish list for donations, including wet and dry cat food, dog food, cleaning supplies, and monetary support.
Every contribution helps the shelter provide for these animals while they recover from the neglect and trauma they endured.
For the rescued animals, the coming weeks will be full of slow but steady recovery. Many may need extra care, socialization, or veterinary attention, especially the pregnant cats who will soon be preparing for kittens.
The RISPCA team is determined to give them the chance to thrive, no matter how long it takes.
Meanwhile, the investigation into Erica Bader’s case continues. Six people are facing charges of failing to report the situation, and one of them is also charged with domestic felony assault.
While the circumstances are tragic and complicated, the rescue of these animals is a bright spot in a dark story, offering hope where it’s desperately needed.
Despite the grim situation, there’s a thread of optimism. These cats and dogs have now been pulled from a dangerous and unhealthy environment, and for the first time, they can experience safety, nourishment, and human kindness. Wayne noted:
“It’s about giving these animals a second chance. They want a good home. They want somebody to love them and take care of them.”
From chaos and neglect to care and hope, these rescued animals are finally on the path to a brighter future, and with the community rallying behind them, their stories are just beginning.
