Stockton Fatal Pit Bull Attack
I’m Ed Smith, a Stockton Wrongful Death Lawyer. A man tragically lost his life Saturday after being viciously attacked by a pit bull in a Stockton neighborhood.
What Happened?
Officers responded around 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 4, 2016, to the 500 block of N. Gertrude Avenue in Stockton.
Neighbors indicated that 43-year-old, Earl Stephens Jr., of Stockton, stopped by to visit a friend, who owned the pit bull.
Man Goes to Retrieve Something From His Car
According to the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Department, Stephens, at some point, went out to his vehicle to retrieve something. That is when the pit bull attacked him.
Stephens’ spouse and the pit bull’s owner tried to pull the dog off Stephens, but the dog also started to bite at the owner, according to the neighbors.
Stephens was also attacked by two pit bull puppies. The puppies were eventually pulled away from the victim.
When authorities arrived, they located an aggressive pit bull running loose in the yard. Stephens was bleeding and suffering from several bite wounds, officers said.
Deputies Shot and Killed the Pit Bull
Sheriff’s deputies shot and killed the pit bull. The two puppies were taken into custody by animal control.
Victim Dies From His Injuries
Stephens was transported to a hospital for treatment. Sadly, he later died from the severe nature of his injuries.
The attack surprised witnesses living nearby because the pit bull was usually friendly to people he knew.
What Caused the Pits Bulls to Attack?
Officials don’t know what caused the pit bulls to attack Stephens. Deputies indicated that an investigation is underway.
It is crucial to have an experienced injury attorney performing an independent investigation. There are many complex factors involved in dog bite fatalities.
In each case, the primary question an experienced injury lawyer looks at is insurance. Simply stated, if the owner or other individual responsible for the injury doesn’t have insurance there is little chance of financial recovery. The most common insurance coverage for dog bites is Homeowner’s Insurance. Sometimes, auto insurance may apply. Especially, when the attack happens around or close to a car. Sometimes renters may have a policy of renter’s insurance that could possibly apply.
If there is an apartment building or commercial landlord involved, that insurance coverage may apply. It really depends on the factual situation. If you have questions regarding insurance and liability, please give me a call for free, friendly advice.
We extend our condolences to the man’s family and friends for this tragic loss of life.
Stockton Dog Attack and Wrongful Death Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Stockton Wrongful Death Lawyer. If you or a family member has been critically injured or lost their life in an animal attack, call me promptly at (209) 227-1931 for free, friendly advice. Or, call me toll-free at (800) 404-5400.
I’ve been helping Northern California residents recover compensation for their personal injuries and wrongful deaths since 1982.
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Source of Stockton Fatal Pit Bull Attack – http://www.kcra.com/news/man-dies-after-dog-attack/39909280
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