Dogs Escaped After U-Haul Hit a Bump
According to an investigative affidavit, the dogs were being transported in the rear of a U-Haul box truck when the vehicle traveled along Claiborne Woods Road. Investigators say the truck hit a bump, causing the rear cargo door to open and all seven dogs to fall out.
Authorities allege that the truck continued driving instead of stopping to retrieve the animals. Security footage reportedly captured the dogs running through the neighborhood and attacking people after escaping.
The responding deputies found several dogs actively attacking neighbors Haley Wright and Aaron Westphar. An officer attempted to stop the attack with a Taser. One dog was subsequently shot and killed after the situation continued, while the remaining animals scattered through the area.
Three People Suffered Injuries
A third person, Angela Johnson, was later attacked by one of the dogs, according to investigators. Police shot that animal as well.
All three victims were reportedly hospitalized with injuries. Wright suffered particularly serious wounds and remained in the hospital for 10 days. A fundraiser organized to help with medical expenses said she required emergency surgeries, extensive suturing and a wound treatment device.
Johnson later told a local television station that she needed a rabies vaccination and several stitches following the attack.
Authorities also determined that none of the seven dogs had current rabies vaccinations on record or active rabies tags, according to the affidavit.
Two People Face Multiple Charges
Following the investigation, authorities charged Rychelle Morrow, 44, and Rodney Morrow, 75, in connection with the incident.
The pair each face multiple counts involving alleged animal abandonment and cruelty, failure to vaccinate the dogs, failure to display rabies tags, an alleged dangerous-dog attack involving injuries exceeding $100, and unsafe conveyance.
Both were arrested on September 16 and were released after posting bond on September 18, according to inmate records. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the dogs’ transportation and subsequent attacks remains ongoing.
