Pitbull bites owner, EPD investigating and dog is at the Humboldt County Animal Shelter

On April 9, 2024, at approximately 9:05 pm., Eureka Police Department (EPD) officers responded to the 3200 block of Glen Street on a report of a dog bite.  The victim of the dog bite, who was also the dog owner, stated they were injured and also requested medical assistance. 

Upon officer arrival, they were able to communicate through the window with the victim, who was afraid to try and navigate out of the residence in fear of the dog attacking them again.  The victim gave permission for the officers to use Pepper Spray to disperse the dogs from their location.  An officer deployed his Pepper Spray and it was effective in the dogs leaving the area the victim was located and allowed them time to exit the residence. A juvenile who was on scene was located safe in their bedroom and officers were able to remove them from the residence through the bedroom window. The victim explained that they own all three dogs that were in the residence.

 

One female dog is currently in heat and when the victim tried to stop one of the male dogs from mating with the female dog it attacked the victim, causing their injuries.  The dog that attacked the victim was described as a gray pit bull. The victim stated the other two dogs, while barking aggressively, had not actually attacked her. The victim was transported to a local medical facility for their injuries which were described as severe and serious in nature.  Due to the aggressive nature of the two male dogs in the residence, the officers secured the residence and left to continue their investigation, as there was no danger to the public with the dogs inside the residence.   

Officers were able to contact another family member who was familiar with the dogs and returned to the residence a little after midnight.  Officers, with the assistance of the family member, were able to secure the dog that attacked the victim.  The dog was later transported to the Humboldt County Animal Shelter. EPD’s Animal Control Officer has taken over this investigation which is ongoing.