Over 100 cats found in U-haul van: California woman held for animal cruelty; 28 felines discovered dead inside

A woman has been arrested after more than 100 cats were discovered inside a U-Haul vehicle parked in a Southern California car park, according to the Merced County Sheriff’s Office.

Jeannie Maxon, 69, was taken into custody on Sunday after deputies were called to a Taco Bell car park in Santa Nella, California, to check on the condition of several cats inside a van, ABC News reported.

Upon arrival, a deputy observed "at least 20 cats in distress" through the vehicle’s window, the sheriff’s office said in a statement released on Monday.

Animal control officers were called to the scene and ultimately found 106 "extremely emaciated cats " along with 28 dead cats inside the van, which reportedly had no food or water available. Photos from the scene show some of the animals pressed against the van’s front windscreen, while others were found stuffed into cardboard boxes.

The cats, ranging in age from one week to eight years old, were seized and transported to the Merced County Animal Shelter. Authorities said the cats will be available for adoption once they are medically cleared by veterinary staff.

Maxon, a resident of Long Beach, California, was charged with 93 counts of animal cruelty and booked into Merced County Jail.

The sheriff’s office noted that the investigation remains ongoing, and further updates will be shared regarding the adoption process.

Officials also issued a public warning about the dangers of leaving animals in vehicles during hot weather.

"On a warm day, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise to dangerous levels within minutes, even if the windows are open," the sheriff’s office said. "When travelling with pets, always make sure they are kept in a cool environment with plenty of shade, fresh water and food."

It remains unclear whether Maxon is still in custody or if she has legal representation.