On November 9th, 2024, there was a fire in Akron, Ohio, where 10 cats were saved. According to Cleveland 19, they state, “…firefighters were called to the 700 block of Salida Street just before 3:15 p.m.” (Noelle Haynes, November 9, 2024). However, there is some confusion as to exactly when the call was made.News 5 Cleveland believes the call was made at around 3:11 p.m. (Mercy Sackor, November 9, 2024).

The Akron Beacon Journal clarifies some confusion by confirming that the house that caught fire belongs to Dawn Hugg, located at 783 Salida St. In an interview with Patrick Williams, Hugg reveals that she has been caring for several cats. She explains that her cats often make themselves at home both inside and outside her residence. The Akron Fire Department was able to find and safely bring all 10 cats back to the Hugg residence, with some cats only obtaining minor injuries (Patrick Williams, November 9, 2024).

Nonetheless, the Akron Fire Department arrived on the scene and found what News 5 Cleveland describes as “…heavy fire and smoke coming from the second floor…” (Mercy Sackor, November 9, 2024). Unfortunately, the Akron Beacon Journal mentions that the exterior of the house was damaged, and the interior was completely burned out. Sadly, Hugg reports that all of her belongings have been destroyed (Patrick Williams, November 9, 2024).

The Akron Fire Department has stated that they do not know the cause of the fire. Hugg also confirms that she is in the dark about how it began. She explains that it was her daughter who brought to her attention the smell of smoke that filled the house.

Thankfully, no one was injured during this event. Dawn Hugg, along with her daughter, and grandson were able to escape before obtaining any injuries.