Davina Corbin, a 56-year-old resident of Butte County, California, was fatally injured in a horrific dog attack involving a large pack of Great Danes.
According to a KCRA news report, a passerby spotted Corbin’s body on Black Hawk Trail outside Feather Falls early morning on Aug. 15, 2024.
Neighbors said she lived in the area and didn’t have a car and that they often saw her walking on the trail. An autopsy revealed that Corbin had suffered numerous dog bites and related injuries.
Neighbors Said They Had Reported the Great Danes
All seven of the adult Great Danes that officials believe were connected to this deadly attack are being euthanized, according to the KCRA report. Butte County Public Health officials said 18 related puppies will eventually be up for adoption.
In the meantime, the investigation into this fatal Great Dane dog attack is ongoing. So far, no criminal charges have been filed. We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of this deceased victim. They will be in our thoughts and prayers.
One neighbor told news outlets that the dogs had also attacked him. He told KCRA that he has had more than one run-in with the pack of large dogs over the last two years.
The man said the dogs would roam up and down the road unleashed, and neighbors who use the road would go out of their way to avoid them. He said he and other neighbors have complained in the past to county animal control officials without the desired result.
Following Corbin’s death, sheriff’s deputies served a search warrant at the property across the trail from the attack. They rounded up 23 Great Danes based on media reports.
Officials said they had previously received reports of loose dogs and welfare concerns, but none related to aggression.
When Dogs Attack in Packs
The situation becomes significantly more dangerous when dogs attack in packs because such collective behavior amplifies their natural predatory instincts.
A dog may be cautious or limited in their aggression on their own, but in a pack, the group’s energy influences each dog, making them bolder and more unrelenting.
This pack mentality can lead to a heightened sense of aggression, as dogs in a group often feed off each other’s excitement and drive to chase or attack.
In a pack, dogs are more likely to coordinate their efforts to overpower their target, leading to more severe injuries or even fatalities.
The pack’s numbers give them an overwhelming advantage, making it difficult for the victim—whether a human, another type of animal, or even another dog—to escape or fend them off.
Additionally, the speed and intensity of a pack attack can leave little time for intervention, increasing the likelihood of serious harm.
Also, dogs in a pack can become less responsive to commands or attempts to control them, even from their owners. This loss of individual control exacerbates the danger, making it challenging to stop the attack. Therefore, pack attacks pose a serious threat to public safety and require immediate, decisive action to prevent or stop them.
What Are The Dog Owner’s Responsibilities?
In California, dog owners have several important responsibilities to ensure the safety of their pets and the public. First and foremost, owners must adhere to leash laws.
These laws typically require dogs to be on a leash in public spaces, such as parks, streets, and sidewalks, unless in designated off-leash areas. This helps prevent dogs from wandering into dangerous situations or posing a threat to others.
In accordance with state law, owners must also ensure their dogs receive the proper vaccinations, particularly against rabies. Vaccination helps protect both the dog and the community from potential outbreaks of this deadly disease.
Additionally, owners must license their dogs with the local animal control agency, which often involves providing proof of vaccination. Dog owners are also expected to provide proper care for their pets, including adequate food, water, shelter, and exercise. Neglecting these responsibilities can lead to animal cruelty charges.
California’s Dog Bite Laws: What is the Strict Liability Statute?
California’s strict liability statute regarding dog bites, codified in Civil Code Section 3342, holds dog owners legally responsible for injuries their dog inflicts on another person, regardless of the dog’s previous behavior or the owner’s knowledge of any aggression.
Under this statute, the owner is automatically liable for the victim’s injuries if a dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully in a private place (including the owner’s property).
This means that the victim does not need to prove that the owner was negligent or that the dog had a history of aggression. The fact that a bite occurred is enough to establish liability.
The strict liability law applies to most situations, but there are some exceptions. For instance, it generally does not apply if the person bitten was trespassing, provoking the dog, or engaging in illegal activities at the time of the bite.
Great Dane Dog Attack: Are Great Danes Dangerous Dogs?
Great Danes are generally not considered dangerous dogs, but like any large breed, they have the potential to cause harm if not properly trained, socialized, or managed. Known for their gentle and friendly nature, Great Danes are often referred to as “gentle giants” because of their calm and affectionate temperament.
They typically get along well with children and other pets and are known for being loyal and protective of their families.
Aggression issues can normally be traced back to a lack of care or training by the owner. Due to their massive size and strength, an untrained or poorly socialized Great Dane can unintentionally cause injury, even during play.
Their sheer size can intimidate them, and if they become aggressive or fearful, they can pose a serious risk. As seen in this tragic case, a Great Dane dog attack can be deadly.
Like any responsible dog owner, Great Dane owners must commit to early and consistent training, emphasizing obedience and proper behavior in various situations.
Socialization is key, as it helps Great Danes learn how to interact appropriately with other animals and people. Owners must also ensure they can manage the physical demands of handling such a large dog.
What to Do If Your Loved One Has Been Injured or Killed in a Dog Attack
If your loved one has been killed in a dog attack, it is essential to take immediate steps to protect your legal rights. First, report the incident to local authorities and seek a thorough investigation.
Preserve any evidence, including photographs, witness statements, and medical records. Consult with an experienced California dog bite attorney who specializes in wrongful death or personal injury cases involving dog attacks. They can guide you through the legal process.
A lawyer can help you pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, emotional distress, and lost financial support.
Throughout this process, please ensure that you are seeking support from family, friends, or professional counselors to cope with the emotional impact such a traumatic loss.
Bisnar Chase has has handled countless dog bite cases involving significant injuries in recent years. Our firm has a 99% success rate, securing outstanding results and providing superior legal representation. Contact us for a free consultation,
Source: https://www.kcra.com/article/woman-mauled-to-death-7-great-danes/61892349
