Central Florida officials will euthanize four dogs because police suspect they fatally attacked a woman in her home.
On Oct. 10, officers found 38-year-old Monica L. Emerson unresponsive and suffering from severe injuries, according to a press release from the Daytona Beach Police Department.
The woman’s boyfriend had told police he had gone to her residence after he was unable to reach her by phone. He entered the home, found her on the floor and called emergency services, police said.
Emerson’s body had multiple injuries consistent with those of an animal attack, and none appeared to be the result of foul play or the result of human involvement, the release stated.
Officials found four dogs, a mixed-breed, large male and three of its offspring, freely running around the home.
Police stated they believed Emerson had a medical episode that rendered her unconscious, and the dogs attacked her during that time.
Daytona Beach Animal Services took custody of all four dogs, and they were later transferred to Volusia County Animal Control Services.
They will be held for 10 days before being euthanized.
Originally Published: October 14, 2025 at 9:55 AM EDT