HAZEL PARK (WWJ) - A 39-year-old woman is hospitalized with severe injuries, and a police officer is recovering after three dogs attacked their owner outside her Hazel Park home on Halloween night, authorities said.
Officers responded at 8:17 p.m. to a 911 report of an animal attack at a home along East Milton, near I-75 and 8 Mile. Upon arrival, police found the woman lying on the driveway while three dogs — identified by authorities as two pit bulls and one Presa Canario — attacked her.
An initial responding officer shot a Taser twice at the animals, which briefly distracted them but didn't stop the attack, according to a police statement. The dogs circled the officer and the victim, and the officer was bitten on the thigh while trying to shield the woman.
During the encounter, the officer shot one of the dogs. As the injured officer attempted to give the woman first aid, the wounded dog and a second dog circled back toward the victim.
A second officer on scene intervened and shot and killed the wounded dog. The other two dogs fled the area but were located shortly after.
The victim was transported to an area hospital with severe injuries to her neck, arms, and legs.
The injured officer was taken to a local hospital, treated for a bite wound to the thigh, and released.
A resident in the home told investigators the attack began inside the house after the victim brought in a stray puppy. The dogs attacked the woman inside before dragging her outside onto the driveway.
Police said all three dogs are owned by the victim and her husband, and none were registered with the city.
The surviving two dogs are currently being held by Animal Control as authorities continue their investigation.
