A 73-year-old woman, Jeriline Brady-McGinnis, was fatally attacked by her own pit bull inside her Roxbury, Massachusetts, home on Monday evening, November 18. Her husband was also injured while trying to intervene, according to friends and police reports.

The tragic incident occurred around 4:30 p.m., with two Boston police officers also sustaining injuries while attempting to subdue the dog. All four individuals were rushed to the hospital, but Brady-McGinnis succumbed to her injuries during surgery, her friend Jean McGuire, 93, confirmed.

“She was attacked in some way, and her arm was severely injured,” said McGuire, a civil rights pioneer and close friend of the victim.

The dog, which was shot during the struggle, was later euthanized on Tuesday, November 19, by Boston Animal Control. The injuries sustained by Brady-McGinnis’ husband and the two officers were reportedly non-life-threatening.

Neighbors expressed fear of the four dogs owned by the couple, with McGuire suggesting the household had taken on more pets than they could handle. Despite this, McGuire emphasized Brady-McGinnis’ deep bond with her animals, describing them as being like her children.

“She took excellent care of them and walked them daily,” McGuire added.

The Boston Police Department’s homicide unit is investigating the case due to the severity of the injuries.

In a heartfelt statement, Brady-McGinnis’ children described her as the cornerstone of their family:
“Our mother had a heart of gold. She was a loving and caring person who always put her children first. The heart and soul of our family is gone.”

Three additional dogs were removed from the home following the incident.