Authorities bust what they call a cockfighting ring in North Philadelphia. One man is in custody facing animal cruelty charges, and police are looking for his alleged accomplice.

KYW’s Ian Bush reports that officials say roosters fought to the death in the home, along the 2900 block of North 7th Street.

“We had a ring set up in the basement, and we got 23 birds out of this location.”

Pennsylvania SPCA law enforcement director George Bengal says the animals are in very good condition — trained like athletes and well-cared for.

He says it was an elaborate setup for people to get in and watch the birds’ bloodbath:

“When you came in to pay your admission, there was a quarter-inch steel plated room, built like a vestibule as you come in the door with bulletproof glass. So you couldn’t make entry into this location unless you were known.”

The surviving animals will be held for evidence as the investigation continues.

(Photo courtesy CBS3)