Dog owner arrested after ‘beautiful’ mum, 55, died of sepsis from being mauled as she defended her pet
COPS have arrested a man after a “beautiful” mum died a week after being bitten by a dog and is thought to have developed sepsis after the attack. The man aged 49, who has not been named, is in police custody in Preston as the investigation continues. Police handlers have seized the dog. Detective Inspector […]
COPS have arrested a man after a “beautiful” mum died a week after being bitten by a dog and is thought to have developed sepsis after the attack.
The man aged 49, who has not been named, is in police custody in Preston as the investigation continues.
Police handlers have seized the dog.
Detective Inspector Chris Wellard said: “While we have made an arrest I would like to stress that our enquiries into this incident are very much ongoing.
“I would like to thank the local community for their support of our investigation so far and ask that anyone who may have witnessed the incident itself, and not yet contacted us, does so as soon as possible.”
Sharon Jennings, 55, suffered neck and hand injuries when she intervened in a fight between her per and another dog on May 31 in Preston.
She didn’t get medical help immediately but she began to feel unwell on Monday and was rushed to hospital.
Sharon died on Friday.
Her heartbroken daughter Natalie Mather said doctors believed she had sepsis, an illness caused by the body’s response to an infection.
Natalie said: “The hospital have said it is the bite that has caused the sepsis.”
She added that her family were waiting for the results of a post-mortem to confirm the cause of death.
TRAGIC TRIBUTE
Natalie previously wrote on Facebook: “Well mum, you tried your best and you fought as hard as you could.
“I still can’t believe you have gone.
“I will never forget the crazy lady you was.
“Kindhearted and always looked after everybody else first.
“I love you so much and so do the kids.
“Sleep tight beautiful.”
Speaking outside her house today, Natalie said she was too upset to comment further on her mum’s tragic death.
SEPSIS DEATH
Sepsis is triggered by an infection in the body, which can sometimes happen after being bitten by an animal.
Most people show symptoms within three to five days and have mottled skin and fast breathing.
If untreated the illness can result in a heart attack or kidney failure and ultimately death, within the space of just a few days.
Sharon’s dog was treated by a vet for an ear injury.
‘I’LL MISS OUR CHATS AND LAUGHS’
Police said they are trying to identify dog that bit her – described as medium-sized with speckled ginger and black fur.
The owner was described as a man with thinning grey or black hair and wearing a blue fleece type jacket.
Many on Facebook left heart-wrenching tributes to the victim.
One wrote: “R.I.P a truly wonderful woman who would do anything for you if she could sleep tight Sharon till we meet again.”
Another added: “My counterpart, grandmas together. Im going to miss our chats and laughs sharon.
“I promise i will look after your 2 as you asked me too, always.”
‘MUZZLE YOUR DOG’
Others expressed their anger at the dog owner and urged him to hand himself in to police.
One said: “So sad, how can this happen??? If your dog is a threat to people or other animals the muzzle it. God bless and rest in peace x”
Another fumed: “The owner of the dog should at least be doing the right thing and come forward!!!! what a shame rip thoughts to the family.”
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Det Insp Chris Wellard of Preston Police said: “Our thoughts are with Sharon’s family and friends at this incredibly distressing time.
“We’re working hard to establish what happened but need anyone with information to come forward as soon as possible.
“Did you see a dog matching this description in the area or see or hear anything around the time of the incident? Please get in touch.”
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