YORK COUNTY, SC (YCSO NEWS) – On January 18, 2020 York County Deputies responded to a home near the 2200 block of Sawmill Rd., Hickory Grove, SC after receiving a 9-1-1 call about a dog attack. Responding deputies located an elderly woman lying on the ground after being attacked by a pit bull terrier.
Immediately, responding deputies rendered emergency first aid to the woman until EMS arrived. The 71-year-old woman was taken to by helicopter to a hospital in Charlotte, NC for her injuries. The pit bull dog was seized by York County Animal Control.
The investigation shows the woman was a family member and was at the residence to tend to the dogs for the dog’s owner. One dog had gotten loose and attacked the woman as she was tending to other dogs in the area.
Upon further investigation deputies discovered a total of 14 dogs at the residence and evidence of state violations of the dogs being improperly restrained, aggressive, and lacking adequate food, water, and shelter. In addition, code enforcement officers are also investigating the possibility the animals were used for fighting. All 14 dogs were taken to York County Animal Control.
“This incident speaks to the viciousness and violent nature of raising animals for the purpose of fighting and unfortunately caused very serious and unnecessary harm to an innocent and unintended victim. This activity is cruel, unnecessary and criminal,” said Sheriff Kevin Tolson.
There is no current information on the woman’s condition. The investigation is ongoing.