Long Beach police and animal-control teams fanned out Sunday after a dog viciously attacked a woman out on a walk near the Los Angeles River and Anaheim Street. Witnesses called 911 when they heard her screaming for help, and officers arrived to find the animal gone and the victim badly hurt. She was rushed to a local trauma center with severe injuries to her arms and legs, authorities said.
According to Long Beach Police, the woman described the dog to CBS Los Angeles as a pit bull, also known as a Staffordshire terrier. The attack was reported at about 1:40 p.m. By the time officers reached the scene, the dog had already taken off, and investigators began canvassing the neighborhood for witnesses and any available video.
Authorities and animal-control teams searching
Police said they are working closely with animal-control personnel to track down the dog, which they consider a serious threat to other residents. As outlined by the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care & Control, county teams assist local agencies when loose or dangerous animals are reported. Long Beach Animal Care Services also maintains a dedicated Report A Bite page with instructions and contact information for anyone who has been injured or who spots a dog involved in an attack.
What the law says
Under California law, dog owners can be held strictly liable for injuries their animals cause in public or when the victim is lawfully on private property, per California Civil Code §3342. That statute allows victims to pursue civil claims for damages even if the owner had no prior warning that the dog might be aggressive, with limited exceptions for certain police or military animals.
How neighbors can help
Officials are urging anyone who lives, works, or was driving near Anaheim Street and the Los Angeles River around the time of the attack to come forward with information, including dashcam or cellphone video. If the dog is spotted nearby or someone is in immediate danger, call 911. For nonemergencies, Long Beach Animal Care Services can be reached at 562-570-7387 or through its online Report A Bite form.
