Couple Wanted for Abandoning 14 Cats, Resulting in Their Deaths

Texarkana police seek public's help in locating suspects Rebecca Cummings and Coty Nipper on felony animal cruelty charges.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

The Texarkana Police Department is searching for a couple, 37-year-old Rebecca Cummings and 40-year-old Coty Nipper, who face felony charges for animal cruelty after 14 cats were found dead in a Magnolia Street home they had allegedly abandoned. Animal control officers discovered the cats had been locked inside the residence for nearly a month without access to food or water, resulting in their starvation.

Why it matters

Animal cruelty cases like this highlight the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for stronger enforcement and penalties to deter such egregious acts of neglect. The tragic deaths of the 14 cats also underscore the broader issue of pet abandonment, which can have devastating consequences for vulnerable animals.

The details

According to authorities, Cummings and Nipper had been evicted from the Magnolia Street home and allegedly left the 14 cats locked inside without any provisions for their care. Animal control officers responding to a welfare check discovered the disturbing scene, with all of the cats having perished from starvation.

  • The cats were found abandoned in the Magnolia Street home in late January 2026.
  • The 14 cats had been locked inside the residence for nearly a month before being discovered.

The players

Rebecca Cummings

A 37-year-old individual wanted on felony charges for animal cruelty in connection with the deaths of 14 cats.

Coty Nipper

A 40-year-old individual wanted on felony charges for animal cruelty in connection with the deaths of 14 cats.

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What’s next

The Texarkana Police Department is asking the public to report any information that could help locate Rebecca Cummings and Coty Nipper, the suspects in this case. Tips can be provided by calling 903-798-3116.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for stronger animal cruelty laws and enforcement to prevent such heartbreaking incidents of pet abandonment and neglect. It serves as a reminder for all pet owners to be responsible and ensure the proper care and well-being of their animals.