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PHILADELPHIA (WPHL) — A disturbing investigation is underway in Northeast Philadelphia where two young children were found living in appalling conditions. The discovery was made by authorities at a home located on the 7100 block of Whitaker Avenue.
Sources indicate that federal agencies were on-site executing a search warrant connected to allegations of threats against the White House.
Officials reported that upon attempting to enter the residence, investigators were met with a powerful stench so overwhelming that a hazardous materials team needed to be deployed to proceed with the search safely.
Inside, officials discovered an 8-month-old infant and a 5-year-old child. Authorities noted that both children exhibited visible bruising and insect bites. They were promptly taken to a nearby hospital to receive medical care and assessment.
Investigators also discovered nearly 40 cats inside the home, several of which were dead, along with at least one deceased dog. Crews were later seen removing large amounts of trash from the property as part of the investigation. Neighbors said they had noticed a persistent foul odor coming from the home.
“A horrible stench every time you would walk. You could smell it from across the street,” said Vex Holmquist, a neighbor who lives nearby.
In addition to the unsanitary living conditions, investigators reportedly recovered several firearms from the residence.
Jacob Holmquist, a resident in the area, stated, “I really don’t think what they did was right. It’s disgusting, and I’m struggling to put it into words how awful that is.”
Authorities said both the children’s mother and father were taken into custody and are facing child endangerment charges. Officials have not released additional information regarding any potential federal charges connected to the search warrant.
The two children have since been placed in the care of the Department of Human Services while the investigation remains ongoing. Authorities continue to work to determine how the children came to be living in such hazardous conditions.