A California man died and a Good Samaritan is facing serious injuries after being attacked by dogs last week.
According to a statement from the San Diego Humane Society obtained by USA TODAY, the incident occurred last Friday afternoon at Mesa Viking Park in San Diego.
Officers with the non-profit shelter were notified by the local police department around noon Friday that the man was mauled by his own three dogs.
“Upon arrival, our Humane Officers worked closely with SDPD to locate two dogs that were still loose and safely impounded a third dog that had been secured in a vehicle,” the statement said. “All three dogs were immediately placed into our care under mandatory bite quarantine protocols.”
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The next day, the San Diego Humane Society got in touch with another bystander, who had been bitten while trying to help the owner, according to the statement.
The victim was hospitalized for “serious bite injuries” and is recovering.
Footage reviewed during the investigation showed the owner walking his dogs two hours before the police contacted the shelter.
The second owner signed the three dogs, described as “XL bully breeds,” over to the San Diego Humane Society to be humanely euthanized.
According to NBC San Diego, officials identified the dog owner as 26-year-old Pedro Luis Ortega.
“Our hearts and deepest sympathies go out to the victim’s loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” the shelter said in a statement.
USA TODAY has reached out to the San Diego Police Department for comment.
Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at tardrey@gannett.com.
