BREAKING: Philadelphia police are urgently investigating a series of unprovoked pit bull attacks that have left multiple dogs injured and a woman now in custody. The alarming incidents occurred in Center City, with the latest attack reported on December 29, 2023.
The first known attack happened at approximately 5 p.m. near 12th and Chestnut streets, where a pit bull assaulted Ziggy, a 12-year-old miniature pinscher owned by Brian Lovenduski. Lovenduski recounted the terrifying moment, stating, “Suddenly, I felt my dog’s leash pull backwards. A dog had come out from behind us and had his leg before we even realized what had happened.”
Witnesses rushed to assist Lovenduski as he battled to save Ziggy, who suffered severe injuries including a broken jaw and a crushed foot, leading to amputation. “Eventually, Ziggy went from screaming hysterically to a state of shock,” Lovenduski said. “I’m still in a state of shock. I can’t believe it happened.”
Authorities have linked this pit bull to two additional attacks on December 26 and December 31, involving a 53-year-old man and a 74-year-old man walking their dogs in the same area. Police are still searching for the pit bull, believed to belong to a homeless owner, who has yet to be identified.
As of now, a woman is in custody regarding these incidents, but formal charges have not yet been filed. Police have not disclosed the current whereabouts of the pit bull, which remains a significant concern for local residents. The Executive Director of ACCT Philly, Sarah Barnett, emphasized the complexity of handling dangerous dog cases, stating, “Filing dangerous dog charges is the alternative. But it is a process that must be initiated by police, reviewed by the courts, and decided by a judge.”
Ziggy is scheduled for jaw surgery on Wednesday, as Lovenduski reflects on the traumatic event. He aims to raise awareness for dog walkers and families in the area, expressing his hope that no one else will experience such a harrowing situation.
The investigation continues, and local authorities urge anyone who spots the brown and white pit bull to contact the police immediately. This is a developing story, and updates will follow as more information becomes available.
