A man in his 60s was killed and a woman and her young child were injured after three dogs attacked near the Mason Creek Hike and Bike Trail in Katy, Harris County, Texas.

The first attack occurred around 10 a.m., when three loose dogs mauled the man during his morning walk, according to Harris County investigators. Deputies conducted a four-hour search for the animals before locating them; the dogs are to be quarantined for 10 days before a hearing.

The man, identified in reports only by his age, was found fatally injured on the trail. A separate encounter involving the same animals left a woman and her young child bitten; both were expected to recover. The incident has raised concerns in the community, especially in light of alarming statistics; approximately 28,000 dog attacks were reported in Harris County in the previous year, with over 21,000 reported so far in the current year.

Jason Brown, a sergeant with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, described the scene and the victims’ routine. “According to the family, he typically walked this little loop around the lake every morning. When he failed to return this morning, they came looking for him,” Brown said. The possibility of dogs roaming off-leash or escaping their properties is a common factor contributing to such tragic incidents.

Brown added bluntly of the animals: “They were very aggressive. He’s suffered multiple injuries.” His comments were part of the sheriff’s office response as deputies searched the area and began the investigatory process. Experts often recommend basic obedience training to help dogs behave safely in public.

After the attacks, Harris County animal control officials began researching whether the dogs had been involved in previous incidents or attacks. The dogs will remain in quarantine under animal control supervision for 10 days ahead of a hearing, officials said. This systematic approach is vital, especially in a region where officials have raised concerns about loose dogs and public safety.

Residents near the Mason Creek trail expressed shock and nervousness after the killings. Karen Scott, a nearby witness, recalled the couple who walked the loop daily: “Because I mean, they walk every day, him and his wife walk every single day, don’t care if it’s cold, burning up, raining or whatever, they’re going to walk.” She added, “This is unbelievable. I just really can’t like, honestly, I’m nervous. Now I don’t know if I want to walk over here now.” The fear felt by residents underscores the community’s need for increased attention to dog safety in public spaces.

Investigators said the response included searching surrounding areas and attempting to locate the animals involved. Officials have not announced additional enforcement steps pending the hearing after the quarantine period.

Local outlets Fox26Houston and Click2Houston provided reporting on the timeline and response to the attacks.

Harris County Sheriff’s Office officials and animal control remain involved in the investigation and handling of the animals. The quarantine and upcoming hearing will determine the next legal and administrative steps regarding the three dogs.

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Original reporting: view the original article.