North Carolina Woman Mauled to Death by Dog She Was Caring For in Her Own Home, Deputies Say
SAMPSON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA — A 38-year-old woman was found dead inside her home after being mauled by a dog she had been caring for, according to the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies believe the animal, described as aggressive, turned on the woman in a fatal attack Sunday evening.
Deputies Respond to Scene on North Peavine Road
Authorities say deputies were called to a home on North Peavine Road around 6:30 p.m. Sunday after receiving reports of a woman found unresponsive. When officers entered the residence, they discovered Barbara Hunter Brewington, 38, dead inside.
Investigators say the victim had been looking after the dog for several weeks prior to the incident. Evidence at the scene suggested she had been viciously attacked, with injuries consistent with a brutal mauling, according to a news release from the Sheriff’s Office.
Dog Euthanized; Rabies Testing Underway
Detectives and Animal Control officers spent hours processing the scene. The dog was found inside the home and described as aggressive and a potential ongoing threat to responders. Authorities later euthanized the animal on site.
Officials confirmed that the dog’s remains will be sent to Raleigh for rabies testing as part of the ongoing investigation. The breed of the dog has not been disclosed.
Authorities Say There Is No Ongoing Danger
The Sampson County Sheriff’s Office said there is no danger to the public, adding that the attack appeared to be an isolated incident. Investigators are continuing to review the circumstances leading up to the woman’s death.
Neighbors told local reporters they were shocked by the tragedy, describing Brewington as “a kind and caring person” who loved animals and often volunteered to help rescue pets in need.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and authorities are awaiting final results from animal health officials in Raleigh.
For updates on this developing case, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
