What started as a routine vehicle towing call in Oregon quickly turned into a major animal rescue. Police in Eugene say they found more than 100 pet rats living inside two parked vehicles, leading to an active neglect investigation. Authorities said the animals were being kept in overcrowded and unhealthy conditions, raising concerns about their safety and well-being, People reported.

The discovery happened on Sept. 23 when Eugene police officers and animal welfare workers responded to assist with two vehicles that were being towed. Investigators said a tarp covering one vehicle was removed, revealing dozens of rats of different colors and sizes living inside. Officers reported seeing animal waste, damaged seats and piles of trash throughout the vehicle. They also said the rats had very little water and no reliable food source.

According to police, the owner told officers the rats had been rescued. He even tried helping capture the animals by using yogurt as bait. Still, there were simply too many rats to catch at once. Officers soon discovered even more rodents living in a second vehicle.

Animal rescuers transported dozens of rats to Greenhill Humane Society, where workers found crowded living conditions and several animals with health problems. Shortly after arriving, three rats gave birth to 18 babies. Officials believe additional rats may still be inside the vehicles. The investigation remains open as animal welfare officers continue caring for the animals.

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