Last Updated on September 16, 2022 by CCAR Staff
On Sunday, June 11, 2017, at approximately 11:25 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 4100 block of Norse Way regarding a screaming female being attacked by a Pit Bull dog. Long Beach Animal Control was also requested to respond.
Officers arrived on scene, and located the woman lying in the street, with the dog a few feet away. She had sustained multiple dog bites all over her arms and legs, and her clothing had been partially ripped from her body. Long Beach Fire Department personnel also arrived on scene, however, due to the dog’s proximity to the woman and aggressive nature, no one could approach her to render aide.
While officers were developing a plan to rescue the woman, the dog became more aggressive and began to advance. Reacting to the dog’s aggression, officers fired a 40mm rubber bullet at the dog to drive him away, while a second officer discharged his duty weapon at the dog, striking it. The dog then ran across the street, which then allowed paramedics to reach the woman.
Officers used a Taser on the dog in an attempt to gain control of the dog, however, it proved ineffective. When the dog attempted to return to the area where the woman was being treated, officers were forced to shoot the dog a second time. The dog was struck and died at the scene.
The woman, a 51-year-old resident of Nevada, was transported to a local hospital by LBFD for treatment, and fortunately, her injuries were considered non-life threatening. No officers or any others were injured during the incident.
Further investigation determined the woman owned the dog, and according to her, the dog had a history of violent behavior towards people in Nevada.
Anyone who has information or witnessed the incident is urged to call Long Beach Police Homicide Detectives Mark Mattia and Donald Goodman at (562) 570-7244. Anonymous tips may be submitted through “LA Crime Stoppers” by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the “P3 Tips” app to your smart phone (available at the Apple App store and Google Play), or visiting www.LACrimeStoppers.org.
