Animal Cruelty Investigation Underway in Derry Township

The Derry Township Police Department is investigating a report of suspected animal cruelty and neglect that occurred on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at approximately 9:09 p.m. at the Hershey Animal Emergency Center located at 1251 East Chocolate Ave.

During the investigation, officers discovered numerous animals being kept inside a 2026 GMC Savana U-Haul van, including 17 dogs, 13 cats, 12 birds, a duck, a rabbit, and a fish. Unfortunately, one dog, a pug named Joey, was severely ill/injured and had to be euthanized due to the severity of its injuries.

The individual in possession of the animals, Selma KIZIL, stated that she runs an animal rescue in Long Island, New York, and was transporting the animals to her new home in Oklahoma City. However, investigators have not yet confirmed where the animals originated or identified all of their lawful owners.  KIZIL was subsequently arrested for Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and other charges.  Arrest link is here.

Placement has been secured for 13 cats, 12 birds, one duck, and one rabbit. Sixteen surviving dogs remain in need of appropriate temporary shelter and care. The Derry Township Police Department is working with the Dauphin County Emergency Management Agency officials and other animal-welfare organizations to secure appropriate placement.

Photographs of the animals are being attached in this post (see pdf attached). Anyone who recognizes an animal or has information concerning the animals' ownership, transportation, or origin is asked to contact the Derry Township Police Department at (717) 534-2202.

Individuals claiming ownership should be prepared to provide documentation or other reliable proof, such as veterinary records, licensing information, microchip information, or photographs. The lead investigator, Officer Zachary Graybill, may be contacted directly at (717) 534-2202. Please reference incident number DT-26-12192 when providing information. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can also submit a tip to our Crimewatch page.

The Derry Township Police Department is committed to ensuring the welfare and safety of all animals in our community. We appreciate the public's assistance in this investigation and encourage anyone with information to come forward.