Tyler, Texas Fatal Dog Attack: 23-Year-Old Pet Sitter Killed While Caring for Three Dogs

• What we know about the fatal dog attack in Tyler
• Local context in Tyler and immediate safety notes for neighbors
• Who might be legally responsible under Texas law
• Texas laws relevant to severe dog attacks and wrongful death
• Wrongful death and survival claims in Texas
• Evidence to preserve right away
• How to obtain official records in Smith County
• Insurance coverage issues after a fatal dog attack
• Common defenses and how they are evaluated
• Support services and practical help in Tyler and Smith County
• Timelines and deadlines to know in Texas
• Commentary from Gosuits Tyler, Texas Personal Injury Attorney
• Take action now: practical next steps

What we know about the fatal dog attack in Tyler

Local news reports indicate that a 23-year-old pet sitter, identified publicly as Madison Riley Hull, was fatally attacked by three dogs she was caring for at a home in Tyler, Texas. According to statements attributed to the Smith County Sheriff’s Office, first responders arrived, found her in the backyard, and a deputy encountered three pit bulls. The deputy shot and killed one of the dogs as they rushed toward him, which allowed him to safely reach the victim and remove her from the area. Despite those efforts, she died a short time later. The incident occurred on a Friday, during a period when many East Texans were preparing for the holiday weekend.

At this time, reports have not publicly detailed whether the property was inside the Tyler city limits or in an unincorporated part of Smith County, whether animal control had prior contact with the dogs, or whether the dogs had any known history of aggression. As with any serious animal attack, additional investigative steps typically include witness interviews, checking prior bite or complaint records, reviewing fencing and containment, and determining whether the dogs were properly secured or restrained.

Local context in Tyler and immediate safety notes for neighbors

Tyler residents know that many neighborhoods have active dog ownership and pet care routines, especially near the Azalea District, along Loop 323, and in subdivisions off South Broadway Avenue. With cooler fall temperatures and holiday travel, it’s common for families to rely on sitters. When something this tragic happens, neighbors naturally ask what they should do right now.

If you live nearby and are concerned about safety, practical steps include staying aware of your surroundings during walks on Rose Rudman Trail, avoiding unknown dogs along back-fence lines, and reporting any aggressive animal behavior to local animal control. In Tyler-proper, animal services typically respond to dangerous animal complaints and may coordinate with county law enforcement if the property is outside city limits. While it’s unsettling to think about, erring on the side of caution around unfamiliar dogs is appropriate after a fatal attack in the community.

Who might be legally responsible under Texas law

Texas civil law looks at several paths to liability in serious dog bite and fatality cases. While each case turns on specific facts, investigators and attorneys usually consider the following categories when evaluating responsibility.

• Dog owner or keeper. Liability often focuses on the person who owned or controlled the dogs. Key questions include whether they knew or should have known of dangerous propensities, whether the dogs had prior aggressive incidents, and whether the owner failed to use reasonable care in restraining, training, or warning others.
• Property owner or occupier. If the incident occurred on property owned by someone other than the dog owner, premises liability principles may apply. This includes whether a dangerous condition existed, whether it was known or should have been known, and what steps were taken to make the premises reasonably safe or to warn.
• Landlords or property managers. Depending on the lease and their knowledge of a dog’s behavior, landlords may bear responsibility for conditions they control. The specifics can be nuanced and fact intensive, especially regarding prior complaints and the landlord’s ability to require corrective action.
• Pet sitting platforms or employers. If a sitter was working through a company or platform, there may be coverage issues under commercial policies, occupational accident policies, or contractual obligations. Texas law does not automatically pin liability on a platform, and classification of the sitter’s status is key.
• Third parties who allowed access or created risk. In some circumstances, a third party may have contributed to the risk, such as leaving a gate open or failing to latch a kennel. Evidence of who last secured the dogs can matter.

Determining accountability requires collecting records, statements, and any prior reports to animal services. It also requires a careful look at Texas statutes related to dangerous dogs and at broader wrongful death law that governs who may bring claims and what damages are potentially recoverable.

Texas laws relevant to severe dog attacks and wrongful death

When a dog attack results in severe injury or death, several Texas statutes often come into play. The following provisions, while not exhaustive, are frequently relevant in investigations and civil claims.

• Dangerous dog framework. Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822 outlines processes related to dangerous dogs, including investigation and control measures. It provides definitions, procedures for determination, and responsibilities for owners. See Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 822.
• Attacks causing death. State law addresses serious attacks by dogs that result in injury or death. While that has criminal implications handled by law enforcement, the existence of a serious attack may also support civil claims through negligence theories and statutory duties. See Chapter 822.
• Wrongful death and survival actions. The Texas Wrongful Death Act and Survival Statute define who can bring claims, what damages may be available, and how the decedent’s causes of action continue through the estate. See Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 71.
• Proportionate responsibility. Texas applies proportionate responsibility in civil cases, which can affect how fault is allocated among parties and whether damages are reduced or barred if a claimant’s percentage of responsibility exceeds a statutory threshold. See Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 33.
• Public information and records. Families can request many investigative records under the Texas Public Information Act, subject to exceptions. See Texas Government Code Chapter 552.
• Inquests and autopsies. Fatalities that occur outside a medical setting are typically subject to an inquest by a Justice of the Peace or a medical examiner depending on the county’s structure. This process and access to related records are governed by state law. See Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 49.
• Public health and safety. For broader safety context, federal public health resources provide general guidance on preventing dog-related injuries. See the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s overview at CDC Dog Bites.

These statutes provide the framework. The facts determine how the framework applies in a particular case.

Wrongful death and survival claims in Texas

In a fatal attack, two distinct civil claims are commonly evaluated.

• Wrongful death claim. This is brought by statutory beneficiaries, which in Texas include the surviving spouse, children, and parents. It addresses the harm they suffer due to the loved one’s death. The statute governing these claims is part of Chapter 71. See Chapter 71.
• Survival claim. This preserves the decedent’s own cause of action as if they had lived, and it is brought by the estate’s representative. It appears in the same chapter under the Survival Statute. See Chapter 71.

Potential damages in these claims are defined by statute and case law. They can include economic and non-economic categories, but the exact scope depends on the evidence and the relationships recognized by law. Nothing about these claims is automatic. Families often benefit from a careful, step-by-step approach to documenting loss, identifying insurance coverage, and preserving their rights under Texas timelines.

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Evidence to preserve right away

Evidence can disappear quickly after a dog attack. Some items require prompt written requests, and some require safe, respectful coordination with law enforcement. Below are examples of evidence families often collect or request through a representative.

• Scene photographs and video. Images of fences, gates, latches, kennel structures, leash points, warning signs, and the general layout show how the dogs were contained or could access a person. Document any broken boards, open gaps, or dug-out areas under fences.
• Prior complaints or reports. Requests to animal control or law enforcement for prior bite reports, nuisance complaints, or dangerous dog proceedings can reveal whether anyone had notice of risk.
• Witness statements. Neighbors who heard barking, saw dogs roaming, or observed previous confrontations can supply vital context. Gather contact information and brief summaries while memories are fresh.
• Communications about the sit. Texts, emails, and app messages between the sitter and the dog owner, or between the sitter and any platform or agency, can clarify expectations, warnings, and instructions. Preserve all communications without alteration.
• Veterinary and vaccination records. Rabies vaccination status and behavioral notes may be relevant. These are typically held by the owner or the vet clinic.
• Property and insurance information. Deeds, leases, and renter or homeowner insurance details help determine coverage and responsibility.
• Emergency response records. 911 call logs, CAD reports, body-worn camera video, and incident reports should be requested promptly under the Public Information Act. See Government Code Chapter 552. Some materials may be withheld during active investigations, so persistence and patience matter.

How to obtain official records in Smith County

After a fatality, families often need to gather several categories of official records. The exact office to contact can depend on whether the property is inside the Tyler city limits or in unincorporated Smith County. When in doubt, start with the agency that responded to the scene and ask where to direct records requests. Consider putting requests in writing and citing the Texas Public Information Act. See Government Code Chapter 552.

Law enforcement incident report and 911 audio

Request the initial incident report, supplemental narratives, and any available 911 audio from the law enforcement agency that responded. In many dog attack cases outside city limits, the county sheriff’s office is the primary agency. If the property lies inside Tyler city limits, Tyler Police may be involved. Some items can be delayed during open investigations, but you can still file the request now and ask for periodic updates.

Autopsy or inquest records

Texas law provides that deaths occurring outside medical care are generally subject to an inquest by a Justice of the Peace or a medical examiner, depending on the county’s system. See Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 49. To obtain records, contact the office that conducted the inquest or autopsy. If you are unsure whether Smith County utilized a medical examiner or a contracted forensic pathologist for this case, ask the sheriff’s office which office handled the inquest and where to direct your request.

Animal control and dangerous dog determinations

Request any animal control reports, impound records, quarantine records, and dangerous dog proceedings linked to the address or the specific animals. Even if the dogs were not previously designated dangerous, the file may contain prior contact that helps establish notice and risk. State procedures that govern dangerous dog matters are set out in Chapter 822.

Medical and emergency care records

Emergency medical records can show timelines and injuries. If care was provided by EMS and then a local hospital such as UT Health East Texas or CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances, request records from both. You will need appropriate authority to request decedent medical records, which often involves the estate’s representative.

How to phrase your request

When submitting a records request, include the date, approximate time, and address of the incident, identify the type of records sought, and reference the Texas Public Information Act. While agencies may provide forms, a clear written request is usually acceptable. See the statute for general rights and procedures at Chapter 552.

Insurance coverage issues after a fatal dog attack

Insurance coverage often determines whether a claim can resolve without protracted litigation. Texas dog attack claims typically look to these potential sources.

• Homeowners or renters insurance. Many policies cover liability for injuries caused by resident dogs, although some policies exclude certain breeds or exclude business activities. Coverage questions require a policy review.
• Landlord policies. A landlord’s policy may provide coverage for premises conditions that contributed to the attack, depending on policy language and the landlord’s knowledge or control.
• Commercial policies. If the sitter was engaged through a business or platform, there may be commercial general liability or occupational accident coverage. Terms vary widely, so documentation of the sitter’s relationship with the entity is important.

Before contacting any insurance company, it is prudent to seek a free consultation with a qualified attorney. What is said to an insurer can be recorded and may be used to limit or deny coverage later. Insurers often ask for broad authorizations or statements early. A careful approach helps protect the claim and ensures that communications reflect the complete facts.

Common defenses and how they are evaluated

Defendants and insurers often raise defenses. Texas law on proportionate responsibility affects how these are assessed. See Chapter 33. The following are commonly seen in serious dog attack cases.

• No prior knowledge. A dog owner may claim they had no reason to know of aggressive propensities. Evidence of prior complaints, training notes, or aggressive displays can rebut this.
• Trespass or scope of invitation. Defendants may argue the injured person was not permitted to be in a specific part of the property. Communications and instructions to the sitter, as well as typical pet care tasks, can clarify the scope of permission.
• Provocation. Insurers sometimes claim that the person provoked the dogs. Investigative evidence, such as witness statements and body-worn camera footage, can test whether that claim holds up.
• Contractual waivers. In arrangements made through platforms or written contracts, defense may raise assumption-of-risk clauses. The enforceability and scope of such terms depend on Texas law, the clarity of the waiver, and the facts.
• Independent contractor issues. Where a platform is involved, it may argue limited responsibility by characterizing the sitter as an independent contractor. Whether that shields the platform depends on contract terms and how the work was actually controlled.

Each of these defenses is fact specific. A thorough record helps ensure responsibility is assigned based on what really happened.

Support services and practical help in Tyler and Smith County

In the wake of a tragedy, families often need immediate practical assistance and information. The following are common starting points in Smith County and the City of Tyler. These references are not endorsements, but rather common community resources.

• Police or sheriff reports. Contact the Smith County Sheriff’s Office records unit or, if within the city, Tyler Police Department records. Have the date, address, and the names of involved parties ready. Written requests citing the Public Information Act can be helpful. See Chapter 552 for your rights to public records.
• Autopsy and inquest information. Ask the sheriff’s office which office handled the inquest for the case and request the appropriate contact. The process is set out in Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 49.
• Animal control. Call Tyler Animal Services if inside city limits or the appropriate county animal services if not. Ask for incident reports, impound or quarantine records, and any dangerous dog proceedings under Chapter 822.
• Mental health and grief support. Many families lean on church communities, local counselors, or area mental health providers in Tyler. After unexpected loss, coordinating support can be as important as the paperwork.
• Hospitals and EMS. If EMS transported from the scene to UT Health East Texas or CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances, request records from all providers who rendered care.

If you are uncertain which jurisdiction applies, describe the location relative to known landmarks like Broadway Square Mall, the Tyler Rose Garden, or Loop 323. Dispatchers and records clerks can usually help route you to the right office.

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Timelines and deadlines to know in Texas

Texas civil claims are governed by statutes of limitations and notice requirements. Missing a deadline can harm a claim.

• Wrongful death and survival claims. These are generally subject to a two year statute of limitations under Texas law. See Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 16. There can be exceptions and other accrual rules, so a careful review matters.
• Claims involving government entities. If a governmental unit is a potential defendant, shorter notice requirements may apply under the Texas Tort Claims Act. Those requirements can be complex and are not automatically apparent from the facts.
• Public records requests. While there is no single deadline to request records, it is wise to request early. Agencies have statutory timelines to respond or seek rulings under the Public Information Act. See Chapter 552.

Because deadlines can run while families are still grieving, calendaring key dates and requesting records promptly can prevent avoidable setbacks.

Commentary from Gosuits Tyler, Texas Personal Injury Attorney

Our hearts are with everyone affected by this tragedy in Tyler. A young woman lost her life while doing everyday work that many households rely on, especially around the holidays. This commentary is offered for educational purposes and general information to help the community understand what happens next and what rights may be available.

From the facts reported so far, several civil issues should be examined. First, the duty to maintain and control dogs is central. Investigators will likely assess whether the dogs had any history of aggression, whether containment was adequate, and whether warnings were provided to the sitter. Second, responsibility can extend beyond the individual who owned the dogs if others controlled the premises or had authority to require safer conditions. Finally, the rapid arrival of deputies and the necessity to neutralize an immediate threat show how dangerous the situation was, which underscores the importance of physical containment and training long before a crisis.

Insurance carriers and corporate defendants often move quickly after an incident. They may request recorded statements, broad medical authorizations, or early releases before the full picture is known. They understand that families are overwhelmed and may not have access to the investigative file yet. This information gap lets insurers shape the narrative and narrow coverage. A measured approach, with careful documentation and an advocate who knows the process, helps restore balance.

Initial consultations are typically free. Discussing the facts with a seasoned attorney before speaking to an insurance company can prevent inadvertent mistakes. Early guidance can help identify all available coverage, preserve crucial evidence, and safeguard rights under Texas law.

Take action now: practical next steps

• Document everything in writing today. Write down timelines, names, and any conversations with law enforcement or animal control. Small details fade quickly, and written notes become vital when requesting records or submitting claims later.
• Submit public records requests without delay. Ask for the incident report, 911 audio, CAD logs, body-worn camera footage, and animal control files. Reference the Texas Public Information Act and specify the date and address of the incident. Early requests help you receive materials as soon as they are releasable.
• Preserve communications and photos. Save all texts, emails, app messages, and photographs related to the pet sitting, the property, and the dogs. Back them up in multiple places to prevent loss.
• Identify all potential insurance policies. Determine whether homeowner, renter, landlord, or commercial policies could apply. Do not provide recorded statements or broad authorizations until you have spoken with an attorney. What is said early can be used to challenge coverage later.
• Clarify the inquest and autopsy pathway. Ask which office conducted the inquest under Texas law and how to request records. Establishing the official cause and manner of death is a foundation for any civil claim.
• Secure the estate’s authority. If a survival claim is being considered, begin the process for appointing a personal representative so the estate can request medical records and pursue claims within the applicable timelines.
• Speak with a qualified attorney before calling any insurer. A free consultation can clarify rights, identify responsible parties, and structure communications in a way that protects the claim. This is particularly urgent where multiple potential defendants or insurers may be involved.
• Respect your limits and gather community support. Accept help from trusted friends or community members to handle logistical tasks. In Tyler, many neighbors, churches, and civic groups are ready to assist with meals, transportation, or childcare so paperwork and appointments do not derail daily life.

Why timing matters

Public records requests can take weeks or months, and insurers often make early moves that affect the scope of coverage. Texas statutes impose firm deadlines, including a general two year limitation period for wrongful death and survival claims. See Chapter 16. Acting now preserves options later, even if the family decides to pause or reassess once more information is available.

Where to start

Start a simple checklist: incident reports, 911 audio, animal control files under Chapter 822, inquest records under Chapter 49, medical and EMS records, and all insurance policies potentially in play. This organized approach reduces stress and helps ensure nothing critical falls through the cracks.