Derry Township police are looking into a serious case of animal cruelty and neglect after dozens of pets were found packed inside a moving van late Wednesday night.
Around 9:00 p.m. on August 19, officers responded to the Hershey Animal Emergency Center on East Chocolate Avenue. When they checked a 2026 GMC Savana U-Haul van at the scene, they discovered a crowded mix of 45 animals inside: 17 dogs, 13 cats, 12 birds, a duck, a rabbit, and a fish. Heartbreakingly, one of the dogs—a pug named Joey—was so severely sick and injured that veterinarians had to euthanize him.
The driver, identified as Selma Kizil, claimed she operates an animal rescue out of Long Island, New York, and was in the middle of hauling the animals to her new home in Oklahoma City. However, investigators are still working to verify where the animals actually came from and who legally owns them. Kizil was arrested and is facing charges of animal cruelty and neglect.
While temporary housing has already been sorted out for the cats, birds, duck, and rabbit, local officials are still trying to place the 16 surviving dogs. Derry Township police are currently teaming up with the Dauphin County Emergency Management Agency and local animal welfare groups to make sure they all get proper care.
If you recognize any of these animals or have details about where they came from, police want to hear from you at (717) 534-2202. Anyone claiming ownership of an animal will need to show proof, like vet records, license details, microchip numbers, or photos.
