Modesto Man Mauled by Pack of Pit Bulls Dies

By Kelly Balamuth on December 4, 2014

In California, a dog owner is liable if the animal bites a person.  This is true regardless of whether the dog has a history of biting.

On October 14, 2014, a man and woman were attacked by four pit bulls in the backyard of a Modesto home, according to CBS Local news.  The man was visiting his mother at her home when the dogs attacked.  He later died of his injuries.  The woman was hospitalized and in a critical condition, with bites on her arms, shoulder, head, and a broken leg.

Deputies responding to 911 calls found the man being attacked by the pit bulls.  The dogs had escaped their yard and got into the victims’ yard through a common fence.  Responding officers immediately shot and killed two of the dogs.  Two other dogs ran into a neighbor’s yard, and when they attacked the officers, the dogs were also shot and killed.

Stanislaus County Sheriff Adam Christianson said that in order to charge the dog owners criminally, authorities would have to show that they were negligent.  A county investigation will determine whether they will face charges.

If you or someone you know has been bitten or attacked by a dog, you need legal help.  An attorney can help you determine whether you can recover for your injuries.