Mail carrier fends off attack by 2 pit bulls
|
The victim, Nancy Jones, is expected to return to work today, six days after suffering numerous bite wounds to the leg inflicted by a pair of pit bulls last Thursday.
The incident happened outside the Spring Valley Road residence of Steve Smith as Jones was out of her vehicle, attempting to deliver a package to the house. Jones told investigators she ran to her vehicle as the two dogs began attacking, trying to hold them at bay with the package she was carrying. One of the animals reportedly dug his teeth in deep enough that Jones was unable to free herself even as she entered her vehicle. She used to the vehicle’s door to pound the dog free of her leg.
According to McMinnville Post Office official Charles Bogle, Jones suffered numerous puncture wounds to her ankle and calf area. The case has been turned over to the post office’s investigative division for further action. The dogs are being held by the Warren County Humane Society while the investigation continues.
Bogle said dog attacks are one of the major concerns faced by postal workers.
“While we haven’t had a whole lot here, dog bites are a big accident figure nationally with the post office,” Bogle said. “We kind of walk a thin line here because we have to consider all these people are customers, but at the same time we want to look after the safety of our employees. We would like the public to be aware of some of the dangers we face on our daily duties, and dogs are a big one.”
Bogle said he does not know what steps postal investigators will take concerning the attack. However, in such cases, packages, delivered on foot by mail carriers, are usually discontinued at residences where there is a substantial risk to the carrier. Regular mail generally continues as usual since the carrier can remain in his or her vehicle while delivering regular mail to the box. Bogle said it will be up to investigators as to whether they will file a damage claim against the homeowner.
While there is no leash law outside the city of McMinnville, civil law does hold pet owners strictly responsible for damages caused by animals allowed to roam at large. Also, civil liability extends to damages caused, even on posted property, where animals cause injury to persons who enter the property in their usual line of work.
Criminal charges may also be pressed against animal owners where injury is involved. However, there has been no charges filed in this case.
As for the pit bulls in question, a court order would have to be issued deeming the dogs dangerous before they can be put down as a public menace. The pet owner can also file such a request.