Hartford Man Found Dead in Home, Surrounded by Cats, Birds

Police are investigating after a Hartford man was found dead in his home, which was in a state of disarray, surrounded by dozens of cats and birds which authorities say were not properly cared for.

Hartford police responded to 118 Banister Street to check on a resident around 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 10.

Police said the home was “in a state of squalor” and that first responders found dozens of “poorly maintained” cats and some birds inside.

Officers believed the air quality could be bio-hazardous and called in the fire department to help fumigate the home before entering.

Once inside, they found the body of 50-year-old Anthony J. Arena. Police said they believe he died of an accidental overdose but are continuing to investigate. The chief medical examiner’s office will determine an official cause of death.

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