FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 16, 2024

Media Contact: Don Belton
pio@animalcare.lacounty.gov
562-706-8458

Tragic Incident in Compton: Investigation Underway After Fatal Dog Attack

In a heartbreaking development, a distressing discovery was made at the 900 Block of North Thorson Avenue, in Compton, California where the significant other of a victim found them deceased in his backyard earlier today. Upon arrival, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the Los Angeles County Fire Department encountered five adult Pitbull dogs and eight puppies aged four to six months within the yard.

First responders swiftly took action to corral the dogs into a neighboring yard to access the victim. The Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) was on scene and has taken all of the dogs into custody.

The father of the dog owner is cooperating and has consented to signing over the dogs to DACC. The animals will be safely transported to the Downey Animal Care Center (ACC) for impoundment and thorough examination by the center's staff veterinarian.

Preliminary information suggests that the deceased individual was involved in breeding and selling Pitbulls. DACC continues to work diligently to gather additional details surrounding the circumstances of this tragedy.

"Our deepest sympathies are extended to the family and friends of the victim," said Director Marcia Mayeda. "We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation to determine the facts and ensure the safety and well-being of both the community and the animals involved."

Updates on the investigation will be provided as they become available.

About the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC)

DACC is one of the largest animal care and control agencies in the nation, operating seven animal care centers and providing services to more than three million residents and their pets. DACC operates under the nationally recognized Socially Conscious Sheltering model to ensure the best possible outcomes for animals and the community. As a community resource center for pets and owners, DACC protects people and animals from harm, provides care for lost and unwanted animals, reunites lost pets with their families, and strives every day to move closer to its goal of finding a loving home for every adoptable pet that comes through its doors. To learn more about DACC, the resources DACC provides, and view its animals, visit www.animalcare.lacounty.gov  or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter). To support DACC’s efforts, please donate to the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation at www.lacountyanimals.org. To learn more about Socially Conscious Sheltering, visit https://scsheltering.org/.