Several people bitten by pit bull in N. Smithfield
RHODE ISLAND -- Police were forced to shoot and kill a dog after it viciously attacked several people in North Smithfield.
According to police, officers were called to a home on Eddie Dowling Highway at about 5:30 p.m. Thursday after it was reported that multiple people had been bitten by a pit bull.
When police arrived, they observed the canine actively attacking four adults who were already bleeding from dog bites.
Officers attempted to stop the pit bull using pepper spray, but it had no effect. They then had to shoot and kill the dog as it began to attack them as well.
The victims were transported to Landmark Medical Center to be treated for dog bites to their arms, hands, and legs, and one man for a bite to the abdomen. They've all since been released.
They were sitting for the dog while its owner was on vacation, police said.
No officers were injured in the incident, which remains under investigation. The pit bull had no tags and more information is needed on its medical history.
It's unclear if the owner of the dog will face charges.
(WPRI - July 5, 2013)
