A crash on Interstate 85 in Jackson County, Georgia, left seven people dead and two rescue cats missing after a transport van operated by FurKids Animal Rescue was caught in the resulting wreckage. The Atlanta-based nonprofit was en route to Vermont on Monday, transporting 37 cats to a partner shelter when the crash occurred roughly 90 minutes into the trip.
How the Crash Unfolded
According to the Georgia State Patrol, the crash occurred around 4:15 p.m. when a tractor-trailer collided with a van, setting off a chain-reaction crash that engulfed the vehicle in flames. All seven occupants of the van were pronounced dead at the scene.
FurKids Responds
FurKids, described as the state’s largest no-kill animal shelter, confirmed that its transport team was involved in the crash. “We are devastated for the families affected, and our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with them,” the organization said in a statement.
Caring for the Surviving Cats
The crash damaged several transport cages, allowing some cats to escape into the surrounding area. By Monday night, 35 of the 37 cats had been located, though two remained missing. “We are conducting triage on all of the cats involved to determine the extent of their injuries and needed medical care,” FurKids said in a social media update.
Two injured cats were transported to the University of Georgia’s veterinary hospital for treatment, while a veterinarian examined others at the scene. Volunteers helped gather the surviving animals, some of which were temporarily sheltered at a nearby truck stop while their conditions were assessed.
Ongoing Search and Support
FurKids continues to search for the two missing cats and is asking for community support during the recovery effort. The organization is accepting donations through its website to help cover medical care and related recovery costs.
A Community Affected
The crash has affected both the animal rescue community and those connected to the victims. FurKids says its immediate focus remains on the welfare of the surviving cats while honoring the memory of those who died.