84 Cats Rescued After Massachusetts Mother Found Dead; Son Charged with Murder

Hanafin was discovered with a gunshot wound in her kitchen shortly after midnight on October 8, 2026, by her husband, Matthew, after returning home from work. Their 13-year-old son was in the home at the time but was unharmed; their daughter was away at college.

Reports indicate that there had been household tensions, particularly between Hanafin and her 22-year-old son, Ryan, regarding the number of rescue cats in their home. On the evening prior to her death, Hanafin expressed to her husband a desire for Ryan to move out. Initial observations revealed 20 to 30 cats and kittens roaming the property, ultimately leading to the total of 84 surrendered to the MSPCA.

Ryan Hanafin was arrested later that day in Vermont after a multi-state manhunt. He faces charges of first-degree murder and multiple firearms violations. Authorities found 19 guns in his bedroom, some poorly stored, which led to charges of improper storage near a minor, along with possession of an untraceable firearm. His carry license had been suspended the morning of the incident. A friend reported Ryan had sent a Snapchat message jokingly claiming to have harmed his mother.

While Ryan has waived extradition and is expected to be arraigned in Massachusetts, the immediate focus of MSPCA-Angell is on the care of the rescued cats, many of whom have varied medical needs. Some will be ready for adoption soon, while others will require longer care. The organization noted the pressures faced by fosterers and shelter resources in such situations and has called for support through adoptions and donations.

A candlelight vigil for Hanafin was scheduled for October 14 at Memorial Park in Reading, where community members mourn her loss. MSPCA-Angell expressed condolences to the family and highlighted the importance of addressing the challenges faced by animal caretakers.