Two charged after 'indescribable' animal abuse scene at Altoona house fire

ALTOONA, Pa. (WTAJ) -- After what the humane society called an "indescribable" scene of animal bodies after a house fire, two women are facing nearly 100 charges.

Cassidy M. Berkheimer, 24, of Altoona, and Rachael M. Feaster, 22, of Bedford, are facing 97 charges -- 33 of which are felony aggravated cruelty to animals -- after a house fire on June 11 that required the Central Pa. Humane Society to help after animals were found dead throughout the home.

The fire happened on the 2400 block of 10th Street in the city. According to the criminal complaint, first responders as well as bystanders and witnesses complained of a foul odor -- an odor police noted was the smell of "death and decay."

While two dogs were pulled from the fire, Altoona Fire Chief Adam Free and Fire Inspector Justin Smithmyer told Altoona police that the home was in deplorable conditions and littered with animal carcasses, urine, feces and trash, charges show. Central Pennsylvania Humane Society officers and staff were quickly called in to assist.

The humane society assistant manager reported back to po...