Over 40 dogs were killed after a Nevada home owned by a city councilman caught fire Sunday night.
Firefighters arrived at the single-family home in North Las Vegas a little after 8 p.m. to find it consumed in smoke and flames with nearly 100 dogs inside, officials told KLAS-TV.
Rescuers were able to save a resident who was home and 52 dogs, but at least 41 dogs were confirmed dead on Monday, KTNY reported. The dogs that survived were treated for burns and smoke inhalation at local animal hospitals.
The tenant also received medical treatment and on Monday was said to be in stable condition. He lived with another tenant in the Stanley Avenue house owned by North Las Vegas Councilman Isaac Barron.
Barron acknowledged he owned the home and said he has been trying to evict the tenants, whose names have not been released, due to months of owed rent, according to the Associated Press.
The councilman reportedly knew there were animals inside the home but did not know how many, according to KLAS-TV.
"As an animal lover, I am heartbroken about this tragedy," Barron said according to KLAS-TV. "I was completely unaware of the conditions inside the rental home and filed a notice of eviction just last week after repeatedly being denied entry by the occupants. I hope those responsible are held accountable by the authorities."
Police Sergeant Chrissie Coon told the AP the tenants are being investigated for the treatment of the dogs.
Investigators said the fire appears to have been an accident.
