Authorities said Tuesday an 80-year old South Carolina man—who had both of his legs amputated— died from injuries suffered during a May 8 attack by four dogs, according to the associated Press.
According to Maj. John Garrison, a spokesman for the Dorchester County Sheriff's Department, Carlton Freeman of Harleyville, was riding his motorized wheelchair when the attack happened.
According to an incident report, Freeman told law enforcement he was dragged from his wheelchair during the attack about 50 miles outside of Charleston. He said the dogs were pulling on his clothes and biting him.
Corner Chris Nesbit confirmed Tuesday that Freeman died from injuries suffered during the attack.
"Upon my examination of Mr. Freeman, it is a wonder that this gentleman was able to hang on as long as he did," said Nesbit through a statement. "He had bites and lacerations from his legs to the top of his head. This is a very sad story, but even worse that Mr. Freeman was basically helpless to the attack, due to being a bilateral amputee."
According to Garrison, authorities captured three of the four dogs. They were taken to an animal shelter. Deputies are currently trying to find the fourth.
According to a police report three of the four dogs were owned by a woman in the neighborhood. Traces of blood were found on the dogs. No arrests have been made.
This is the second dog attack in the county in a little over a year that has ended with a death.
In April 2012, a baby who was only 2-months old suffered a fatal dog attack in his family’s home. His father was sleeping in a nearby room. The dog dragged the child from his baby swing.
