A man in his 70s is fighting for his life after being viciously mauled by two aggressive Rottweilers on a quiet residential street in Bognor Regis.
The shocking attack happened around 9:50am Friday morning on Lewes Close, leaving the victim with extensive injuries described as “life-threatening” by police.
The pensioner had been walking his own small dog when the two Rottweilers suddenly set upon him in a sustained and brutal assault. His terrified screams alerted and horrified neighbors, one of whom said: “You can’t describe the screaming. I knew straight away something really bad had happened.”
Multiple reports of the man being savaged by the out of control dogs were quickly made to Sussex Police. However, such was the immediate threat to life caused by the ongoing attack, urgent action had to be taken.
Specialist firearms officers were rushed to the scene and granted authority to bring the dangerous situation under control. They discharged their weapons, shooting dead both Rottweilers at the scene. This allowed the victim to be freed and given emergency first aid before being rushed to hospital.
He remains in a critical condition as doctors battle to save his life. The small dog he was walking miraculously survived unscathed.
A 29-year-old local man has been arrested on suspicion of owning a dangerously out of control dog. He remains in custody as forensic investigations get underway and police look to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the attack.
The close-knit community has been left shocked and shaken by the horrific events on their doorstep. One neighbor summed up the thoughts of many: “Our hearts go out to the poor man who was just walking his little dog when this happened. I hope he pulls through.”
Police are appealing for any witnesses or footage which could assist their ongoing investigation into the attack. The case has also been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to the discharging of firearms officers’ weapons.
While residents are relieved the threat was contained quickly before anyone else could come to harm, many will be left questioning how such a violent attack could happen on their quiet residential street.