An evening run in Wynwood turned into a nightmare Wednesday when a 30-year-old man and his German shepherd were left seriously injured after two unleashed pit bulls allegedly attacked near Northwest Second Avenue and NW 22nd Street. The runner, identified as Evan Motlong, says he was knocked unconscious while trying to shield his dog. He told reporters he has filed a police report and wants the other man and his animals held accountable.
According to Local 10, the pit bulls charged at Motlong's German shepherd and bit the dog repeatedly, leaving it with a broken leg. Motlong said he was able to pull the dogs away and call 911, but that the other man at the scene then ordered the animals to attack him. Motlong told the station he was shoved to the ground and hit so hard he lost consciousness. Local 10 published hospital photos that show he suffered several fractures and may need surgery.
"I just want to get justice for myself and my dog," Motlong told Local 10. A witness cellphone video included in the station's report shows Motlong lying motionless on the sidewalk while the man he accuses walks away and kicks the victim’s phone. The station reported that police had not charged the man as of its latest update.
How to report an aggressive or dangerous dog
Victims and witnesses who want Animal Services to investigate can contact Miami-Dade County through the 311 system, which triggers a dangerous-dog investigation and, when appropriate, a 10-day quarantine of the animal. According to Miami-Dade County Animal Services, callers must provide the address where the attacking dog lives and contact information for the victim so an officer can be dispatched.
What authorities can do next
Miami-Dade’s code allows Animal Services to impound animals that are found running at large and to designate dogs as "dangerous," which brings registration requirements, confinement rules, warning signs and other restrictions. Under the Miami-Dade County Code of Ordinances, a dangerous designation can lead to fines, impoundment and, in extreme cases, euthanasia after due process. Owners can appeal administrative decisions while still complying with strict confinement requirements.
Dog attacks have been a recurring concern across Miami-Dade this year. In March, a toddler was hospitalized after an attack by two pit bulls, and the animals were later surrendered to Animal Services, the Miami Herald reported. That incident and other recent cases have kept public safety and dangerous-dog enforcement under close scrutiny in the county.
Motlong remains hospitalized as he recovers from fractures and told the station he hopes witnesses with video or information will come forward. He says he wants the animals removed and criminal accountability for what he describes as a violent encounter on an otherwise ordinary run.
