SANTA NELLA, Calif. — A Merced County sheriff’s deputy responding to a welfare check discovered a horrifying scene on June 29, 2025: more than 100 cats trapped in a parked U-Haul van outside a Taco Bell.

Deputy Ross was dispatched to the fast food parking lot at 5:30 p.m. and spotted roughly 20 distressed cats through the window. When Animal Control Officers Rafferty and Pacheco arrived, they uncovered 106 severely emaciated cats and 28 deceased ones inside the vehicle. There was no food or water found in the van.

The cats—ranging in age from one week to eight years—were seized and transported to the Merced County Animal Shelter for emergency care. Atwater Veterinary Center is assisting with medical treatment. The animals will be available for adoption once medically cleared.

The cats’ owner, 69-year-old Jeannie Maxon of Long Beach, was arrested and booked into the Merced County Jail on 93 counts of animal cruelty. The investigation is ongoing.

Authorities remind the public that animals left in vehicles during hot weather face serious risks, including heatstroke and death. Always provide pets with shade, water, and a cool environment when traveling.

Source: Merced County Sheriff’s Office