URGENT UPDATE: A shocking alleged break-in attempt at the Ten Lives Club animal rescue in Hamburg, NY, has left the community rattled. The incident occurred early Saturday morning and was captured on surveillance footage, prompting an immediate call for assistance from local residents.
Marie Edwards, the founder and executive director of the rescue, was out of town when notifications from her Blink Camera alerted her to suspicious activity. “I was appalled,” Edwards said, expressing her fear upon seeing the video of four individuals approaching the property. “It was very scary to see the camera and the people.”
The footage shows a group of four individuals, some wearing masks and hoods, attempting to enter the rescue’s building. They also targeted a neighboring vacant property, which Edwards hopes to purchase to expand services for more cats in need. “We’re in negotiations to purchase it right now,” she stated, emphasizing the urgency to protect the animals from potential harm.
Fortunately, the alleged intruders were unsuccessful in entering the buildings, but they did manage to damage two cameras in their attempts to evade detection. “They reached up to one of the cameras and tried to take it down,” Edwards said. “They got some footage of their faces, so hopefully the police can work with that.”
“The fact that someone, or multiple people, would try and break in and possibly jeopardize the well-being of our cats is just disappointing, heartbreaking, and we’re pretty angry, to be honest,” said Kelly Sinclair, the rescue’s community development manager.
In response to this alarming incident, the Ten Lives Club is enhancing security measures around its facilities. “We have somebody going over and putting up boards on all of the windows,” Edwards explained. “We’re going to be extra vigilant here at our building.” Staff members have been advised to ensure that everything is secure before leaving the premises, and additional lighting has been installed to deter future threats.
The organization is also seeking donations to upgrade their camera system for better surveillance. Community support is crucial during this distressing time. If anyone has information regarding the incident or recognizes the individuals in the surveillance footage, they are urged to contact the Hamburg Police Department at 716-364-2035.
The Ten Lives Club remains committed to its mission of rescuing and adopting out cats, and they are determined to protect their precious animals from further threats. Community members are rallying behind the rescue, showcasing the power of solidarity in challenging times.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
