The Investigative Committee in the Leningrad Region is examining an incident in which three dogs attacked a schoolgirl, leaving her hospitalized with bites and visible injuries. The inquiry remains ongoing as authorities work to establish the sequence of events and determine responsibility for what occurred. Local observers and the community have flagged the development as investigators gather details about the circumstances surrounding the attack.
The incident took place in late June in the village of Kasimovo. Early reports described three children, including a 13-year-old girl, riding a bicycle when three bulldogs escaped from behind a fence. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic moment: two of the children were able to distance themselves from the dogs, while the girl fell from her bike and lay on the ground as the animals moved toward her. The dogs then attacked, arousing concern among nearby residents who witnessed the events firsthand.
A neighbor who witnessed the attack alerted her husband, who quickly vaulted over the fence, moved toward the girl, and attempted to drive the dogs away. The girl’s father-in-law joined the effort later, carrying the injured child to safety. Witnesses noted that the dogs appeared to target the girl rather than acting with intent toward others nearby, though investigators are still assessing the precise motivations and contributing factors.
Medical professionals evaluated the girl as moderately injured, with multiple bruises and abrasions and a torn ear. The victim’s mother said the dog owners did not reach out after the incident and suggested that other potential victims existed, though no formal report to authorities was filed at that time.
The dogs’ owner was not present at the moment of the attack and arrived after learning of what had happened. He reportedly offered apologies and assistance upon arrival. Some witnesses reacted with critical remarks directed at him in the immediate aftermath.
Two days later, a veterinarian visited the owner’s residence to assess the animals. The dogs showed no signs of aggression toward the veterinarian. The owner surrendered veterinary records for the animals to law enforcement as part of the ongoing inquiry. A neighbor suggested that teasing by children near the fence could have provoked the animals, potentially contributing to the defensive behavior observed in the dogs.
Within a broader context of animal-related incidents, local officials note prior reports of injuries linked to animals in the region, including an earlier case in a separate territory where animals caused serious harm to a person. Investigators emphasize that each case is evaluated on its own facts, with a focus on safety, animal control measures, and community awareness to deter similar events in the future.
Officials continue to collect statements from witnesses, review available surveillance footage, and verify the animals’ provenance, vaccination status, and the owners’ compliance with local animal-control rules. The aim is to establish a clear factual timeline, determine potential liability, and implement steps to safeguard residents and prevent similar episodes going forward. As the case progresses, authorities will provide updates consistent with investigative procedures and public safety considerations. References: local authorities and investigative records.