San Angelo Animal Services Officer Critically Injured in Vicious Dog Attack

SAN ANGELO, TX — A San Angelo Animal Services officer remains in critical condition after being attacked by two large dogs on Cloud Street on Wednesday, Nov. 6.

The officer, whose identity has not been released, sustained severe injuries, including multiple bite wounds, lacerations, a broken arm, and received injuries to his face. He was initially treated locally before being flown to Lubbock for advanced medical care.

City Manager Daniel Valenzuela, Police Chief Travis Griffith, Mayor Brenda Gunter, and Assistant Director of Neighborhood & Family Services Morgan Chegwidden addressed the community in a press conference today, detailing the attack and ongoing investigation.

Valenzuela requested the community’s support, urging residents to “please pray” for the officer and his family. Valenzuela described the officer as a “dedicated public servant whose life is at risk.”

It happened when the Animal Services officer responded to a report of multiple aggressive dogs roaming freely on Cloud Street. Upon arrival, the officer found at least 10 dogs on the property. Witnesses reported that when the owner opened the gate, two large mixed-breed dogs, reportedly with some pit bull characteristics, escaped and attacked the officer.

San Angelo Police officers, who were called to assist, administered initial treatment before the officer was transported to the hospital. 

The dogs involved in the attack were surrendered to Animal Services by their owner and were euthanized in accordance with local procedures for severe incidents of this nature.

The San Angelo Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division is examining whether the incident warrants criminal charges. Chief Griffith explained that if a dog attack results in serious bodily injury, it can escalate to felony charges, including aggravated assault, depending on factors such as owner negligence or malicious intent.

“Our officers, along with Animal Control, face real dangers on a daily basis,” Griffith said. "Investigators are assessing any history of aggressive behavior among the dogs and prior incidents at the residence. Further interviews with witnesses and the owner are underway, and authorities expect updates in the coming week." 

The press conference will air on our LIVE! Daily News show this afternoon.