A 60-year-old woman and mother of two was discovered deceased in a wooded area with severe dog bites.
The body was found by a man who promptly alerted emergency services on Thursday, April 23. Despite efforts to revive her, the victim, identified as Lucia Tognela, could not be saved.
Lucia, a resident of Bianzone, Italy, was believed to have been taking a solitary walk in the nearby Trivigno di Tirano area where she was discovered. Authorities have confiscated five Dogo Argentino dogs, resembling mastiffs, from the local resident who first encountered her.
According to reports from locals and hikers, the dogs were frequently allowed to roam unleashed and without muzzles. The dog owner allegedly permitted this behavior despite prior incidents involving hikers. His lackadaisical supervision of the dogs had resulted in numerous complaints and police interventions, despite his recent relocation to the area three years ago.
A post-mortem examination has been requested to determine whether Lucia succumbed to a sudden medical event, like a heart attack, prior to the dog bites, or if she was fatally attacked.
Family members informed investigators that Lucia did not have any known heart conditions or other medical issues. DNA testing on saliva samples from her wounds will be conducted to ascertain if the injuries were inflicted by the confiscated dogs.
The dog owner had allegedly observed one of his dogs covered in blood before discovering Lucia’s body. The 46-year-old individual may face charges for failing to control his animals and possible manslaughter.
Authorities have dismissed the possibility of an attack by wild animals such as wolves or bears, as reported by NeedToKnow.
In the United Kingdom, the Dogo Argentino breed is prohibited under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, but it is not banned in Italy.
Lucia, a married former surveyor with two grown children, was an avid walker and member of a choir in her hometown, Villa di Tirano, where she had served as a councilor. She owned a second residence in Trivigno di Tirano and reportedly had a fear of dogs.
Franco Marantelli Colombin, the mayor of Villa di Tirano, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, emphasizing the aggressive nature of the dog breed and the responsibility of its owner. He extended sympathy to Lucia’s family during this difficult time.
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