PHOENIX – An elderly woman and dozens of dogs died after a fire consumed her home in Phoenix on Saturday, officials said.
The 86-year-old woman, Marilyn Pauley, was transported to a local hospital for treatment after her house on the city’s north side caught fire, Sgt. Phillip Krynsky, a Phoenix Police Department spokesperson, told The Arizona Republic, part of the USA TODAY Network, on Monday.
Krynsky said Pauley ultimately died from her injuries. He added that more than 30 dogs – possibly more than 40 – were also inside the home.
Firefighters were able to rescue seven dogs while the remaining perished.
Krynsky said it appeared the woman lived in the home by herself. The fire’s cause remains under investigation, according to Krynsky, although investigators have ruled out foul play.
Follow reporter Perry Vandellon Twitter @PerryVandell.