PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — It’s still an ongoing investigation by Philadelphia Police into a series of vicious pit bull attacks in the city last month, but authorities announced Thursday that one in connection with at least one of the attacks has been located and captured.
Police said the pit bull attacked a smaller dog in the area of Chestnut and Juniper Streets in Center City on Dec. 26. Officials said the pit bull’s owner was a homeless woman, who was arrested on an unrelated matter.
The 11-month old Sheltie named Stella was severely bitten on the front leg and her owner, J. Bazzel of Fairmount, said the veterinarian bills are approaching $20,000.
"It is just a sad state of affairs all the way around,” said Bazzel. “I don't think that anyone is excited and happy that this dog has been taken off the street, but there is relief."
Police are investigating other pit bull attack complaints. It's not clear if the other incidents involve the same pit bull. One attack occurred on Dec. 29 near 12th and Chestnut. A 12-year-old miniature pincher named Ziggy was severely bitten on his hind leg, and the leg had to be amputated. The dog's owner was also injured.
On Dec. 31, near 19th and Walnut Streets, a man and his dog were injured in a pit bull attack. There have been no charges filed at this time in connection with dog bites.