Pets evacuated after FBI uses animal shelter incinerator to destroy meth

Dozens of cats and dogs as well as 14 workers were evacuated from an animal shelter after the FBI used an incinerator to destroy two pounds of meth.

The incident happened in the Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter in Billings, Montana on Wednesday.

A huge cloud of smoke engulfed the building, with the smoke being sucked back inside due to the negative pressure, officials said.

A fan was supposed to be on hand to diffuse the smoke out of the shelter, however it was not available on Wednesday, assistant city administrator Kevin Iffland confirmed.

While the incinerator is used to burn the remains of dead animals, it is sometimes used by local police and the FBI to destroy narcotics.

Shelter director Triniti Halverson said she had no idea about the FBI operation and assumed the smoke was from burning carcasses.

She said she developed an intense headache and a sore throat, while other staff reported sweating, coughing and dizziness.

‘Not a party’, she remarked.

Officials are also monitoring four litters of kittens that was exposed to the fumes while in an enclosed room.

Most staff received treatment in an oxygen chamber for several hours following the incident.

An investigation is underway to ascertain whether the incinerator was set at the correct temperature so it wouldn’t emit toxins.

The shelter remains closed while it is tested for contamination and workers are checked for exposure.

All the animals have since been either relocated or taken to foster homes.

Resident Jay Ettlemen, who attempted to donate dog food on Friday, asked: ‘Why the hell are they destroying drugs inside the city limits?

‘here’s so many other places in the middle of nowhere.’

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