69-Year-Old Woman Mauled To Death By Dogs; Victim Suffered More Than 100 Bites

A 69-year-old Florida woman was mauled to death by three dogs while she was walking toward her home after visiting her son's home.

Shirley Johnson, a Holmes County resident, was found dead in Gritney on Aug.14, a day after she was attacked by the dogs while walking home from her son's residence, News.com.au reported.

Johnson's body was found by passersby and a medical examination later revealed the cause of death was dog bites. Johnson suffered more than 100 bites in the vicious attack, news outlet KKTV reported citing the medical report.

Officials have reportedly euthanized the three dogs that were responsible for the attack. Neighbors said the dogs were known to be aggressive and had a history of violent temperament.

However, investigators said no charges were issued against the owner of the dogs due to a lack of sufficient physical evidence linking the canines to the death of the woman.

Johnson's family conducted a graveside service on Aug. 18 at the Stevenson Cemetery, according to an obituary released by Peel Funeral home.

"Shirley is survived by three sons, Jerry Johnson, Jody Johnson, and Michael Johnson, and wife Jane all of Bonifay, FL; three grandchildren, Johnathan, Dalton, and Caleb; several aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family," the Funeral home said in a Facebook post.

According to Florida law, a dog owner can be held liable for a dog bite, even if they were not previously aware of its aggressive nature. However, the victim should be able to prove the attack happened while they were either in a public space or lawfully on private property. The law also allows the victim to claim compensation for "negligence, scienter, or intentional tort."

A 5-year-old boy in Michigan was viciously mauled by two pit bulls in May and the child had to undergo facial reconstructive surgery after suffering critical injuries. The owner of the dogs was charged and the canines were euthanized.