'Devastated:' LI Rescuers Fundraise After Cat Sanctuary Founder's Loss

LONG ISLAND, NY — The death of a well-loved member of Long Island's animal rescue community in a fire Monday has led to an outpouring of shock, despair and grief — as well as to a collective resolve and commitment to save the cats left behind after unthinkable tragedy.

Police identified the man killed in a Medford house fire Monday morning as Christopher Arsenault, 65.

Arsenault was the founder of the not-for-profit Happy Cat Sanctuary. Suffolk County officials said Monday that in excess of 100 cats were found either deceased or still alive; it has not yet been determined how many cats were actually found deceased. Previous reports indicated that up to 300 cats may have lived at the sanctuary, both inside and out.

The house was fully engulfed in flames, officials said, adding that "a good number of cats" that lived in outside structures did survive.

From the moment the news broke, animal rescue organizations from every corner of Long Island sprang into action, putting out the plea for carriers as they raced to save the cats that meant everything to Arsenault.

Arsenault, on his Happy Cat Sanctuary website, said he started rescuing in 2006 after his 24-year-old son Eric lost his life in a tragic accident when the throttle on his motorcycle stuck. After the devastating loss, Arsenault came across a cat colony of 30 sick kittens. He removed the kittens from the colony and nursed them back to health.

"It was at that point that Chris knew saving cats was his calling, and he opened Happy Cat Sanctuary," the site said.

Many, learning that a person has died in the fire Monday, reacted in disbelief and despair, praying that the news wouldn't reveal that Arsenault had died — the idea of his loss was staggering for many.

After learning of his death, a GoFundMe page, "Support Happy Cat Sanctuary After Tragic Fire," was created by Lisa Jaeger, Arsenault's friend and fellow rescue advocate.

"Tragedy struck Long Island when Happy Cat Sanctuary was hit with a housefire. Christopher Arsenault, the owner and founder, lost his life while running back into the house trying to free the cats," she said. "We have over 200 cats that are still being secured and will need vetting, vaccinating, and rescues to step up and help us secure them. Please donate anything you can. We are absolutely devastated and distraught over the loss of Chris and the sanctuary."

Although police have not confirmed Arsenault's actions during the fire, rescuers said Ring footage from nearby homes racing back and forth into the burning building, trying desperately to save that cats to whom he'd devoted his life. In past interviews he'd shown the many spaces in his home, indoors and out, lovingly dedicated to the felines. And he had plans in place to move the cats to a larger space upstate in the coming months.

On Facebook, the tributes poured in, testaments to a man remembered for his gentle soul, caring spirit, and steadfast love of the cats he adored.

"If there is a Rainbow Bridge, this man will be greeted like royalty. A true tragedy on many levels," one woman wrote on Facebook.

The Strong Island Animal Rescue League said their team was "on the ground, trying to find survivors," adding that fosters were desperately needed. "This is a horrific tragedy," Frankie Floridia, president of the organization, wrote.

Others echoed their shock and sadness over Arsenault's loss: "He was the most selfless person I have ever met," Lynn Oliver told Patch. "His love and passion for the cats was like no other, and his loss is a big blow to the cat rescue community. This loss is huge to the rescue world! He lived and died for them, saving as many as he could, running into the fire to save them — until he never came back out. Devastating is an understatement."

Other rescue advocates vowed to carry on in his memory and save the surviving cats — because that's what Arsenault would do. What he would want them to do.

"The devastating fire at the Happy Cat Sanctuary has left a deep wound in our hearts, but it has also highlighted the strength and unity of the rescue community," said Virginia Scudder, founder and president of North Fork Country Kids: Animal Rescue & Preservation Through Pedagogy. "As part of the North Fork Country Kids Animal Rescue, we are working closely with Lisa Jaeger from Jaeger's Run Rescue, who loved her dear friend Chris and is on the Happy Cat board. Likewise, Frankie Floridia from the Strong Island Animal Rescue League, and others, to provide immediate care for the surviving animals."

Currently, Scudder said, her rescue is caring for six of the cats. "We are thankful to the Mattituck-Laurel Veterinary Hospital, which is helping to ensure their recovery for North Fork Country Kids."

Scudder reflected on the outpouring: "This effort is more than just a rescue — it is a community coming together with a shared goal. The health, safety, and advocacy of all animals. The tragic passing of Chris has shaken the entire rescue world across Long Island, and it is a reminder of the tireless work and selflessness that rescuers like him, and many others, dedicate to animal welfare."

She added: "We hope this tragedy will bring more awareness to the daily challenges and responsibilities faced by animal rescuers, who work quietly but relentlessly to make a difference. Our mission, in honor of Chris and his lasting impact, is to continue his work and ensure that all animals are treated with compassion and respect. Together, as a community, we will rise above this loss and remain dedicated to our mission of rescue and advocacy."

Other rescue groups also sent their heartbroken messages of sorrow: "Our deepest condolences go out today on the devastating , heartbreaking and tragic loss of Chris and all at Happy Cat Sanctuary," Missing Angels - Long Island said on its Facebook page. "Chris tragically lost his life while trying to save these innocent souls. The loss of life already known is devastating. Fly high! Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time for strength and peace. We are praying that more cats have survived and can be located quickly. Prayers to all the rescuers out there today. Please say a prayer for all."

"This is such a tragic loss," Linda Stancarone told Patch. "Chris had a hard time saying 'no' and helped as many people and cats as he possibly could. His son Eric died in a motorcycle accident and Chris dedicated his life to cats, because his son loved animals so much."

She added that she has been doing rescue for well over 30 years. "Chris was fascinated with my commitment to these amazing little creatures. I met Chris through my husband about 20 years ago. He has been friends with my husband Mark for about 30 years. Chris was such a nice guy and had the most beautiful smile. He loved to dance and go see Mark's band 'The Projekt.'"

She added: "When we found out that morning, we got there as quickly as we could. We brought supplies and carriers. We tried to assist in any way possible."

Jaeger, she said, is the coordinator for donations and rescue services for the surviving cats. "We have agreed to take in five ferals that are not adoptable. In memory and respect for Chris, we are all working together on keeping this rescue going or finding each and every one of these cats homes. Please keep Chris’s family in your prayers."

To donate to the GoFundMe, click here.