Three people were taken to the hospital on Wednesday evening after a dog attack was reported on Pike Street Southwest in Etna Township.
According to Fire District Battalion Chief Tom Bingham, two men and one woman were taken to Grant Medical Center after suffering bites on and around their face. The injuries were severe, but non-life-threatening.
The attack was reported around 8:30 p.m. as a dog bite, but as first responders got to the scene of the home, more potential victims were added to the list. Eventually, all the victims ran outside and left the dog locked inside.
Police have not determined the breed of the dog, but they believe it may have been trying to protect its owner, 44-year-old Jeanie Nickel, after a small scuffle occurred inside the house. Nickel suffered wounds to her bottom lip.
The two other victims, Alan Samsal and Mathew Wright, suffered punctures and facial tears.
Criminal charges may be filed. In the meantime, the dog will likely have to go into quarantine to get tested for rabies. The local dog warden expects to follow up with all three of the victims.
More than 250 dog bite incidents were reported in Licking County in 2014, the majority of which were caused by Pit bulls and Labradors. Chief Bingham said this attack was one of the most serious he has ever seen.
Punctures and facial wounds are some of the most common types of dog bite injuries. Oftentimes, victims will have to undergo multiple surgeries to repair the damage caused.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a dog attack, the victim may be entitled to file a personal injury claim. The dog bite lawyers at O’Connor, Acciani & Levy understand how devastating this type of attack can be and how injuries are not only physical, but also emotional. Our injury lawyers can help you get the justice you deserve.