Anita Mears: Oklahoma woman mauled to death by dogs, cops thought she was STABBED
NEWALLA, OKLAHOMA: A woman from Oklahoma who was killed by a pack of dogs had some wounds that looked like she had been stabbed multiple times.
On Sunday, April 24, the Oklahoma County Deputies reported to a home in a local, rural community around Harrah where they found the body of Anita Mears, 61. When they checked her initially, they thought the injuries were a result of stabbing. Oklahoma County Sheriff Tommie Johnson III said during a press conference that, "Ms. Mears had injuries consistent of being stabbed multiple times."
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A different coroner's investigation revealed that Mears had been attacked by a large pack of dogs. This attack eventually resulted in her death. Johnson III said, "The Oklahoma Coroner's Office responded and determined this is not a homicide." To add to the misery, it was also found that Mears own dog was also injured in this attack as the loyal pet was trying to protect Mears. When the authorities reached Mears place, they found the pet dog to be standing around her, guarding her body.
Johnson III said, "We don't know where the dogs are and are asking people if you see a pack of dogs stay away and please call police. Obviously, they're traveling in packs so they can be dangerous when they do that." He added, "You talk about how in any rural part of the community, dogs get let loose out there and then they group up and they just run like pack animals. So, it is very common to see a pack of dogs running around."
Sheriff Johnson said, "Our heart goes out to her family. Life is precious, and it's sad when we lose one, especially in this fashion."
A local resident who is Mears neighbour was in complete shock after learning about the horrific way in which Mears life came to an end. She described Mears to be a caring and thoughtful person. The neighbour Lensie Wilkerson told KWTV, "A very kind compassionate person, always there when you needed her, she was a huge help and she'll be sorely missed. My daughter loved her. Like she wanted to go down there all the time. She's a very kind person and I just can't believe this happened."
Dog attacks
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that over 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year in the United States. Around 800,000 of these cases are in dire need of medical attention. Around 50% of these turn out to be children.
The CDC shares a list of actions that one must follow if approached by a stray/unfamiliar dog:
-- Stay still and remain calm
-- Avoid direct eye contact with the dog
-- Do not panic, make loud noises or run
-- Say "no" or "go home" in a firm, deep voice and stand with the side of your body facing the dog
-- Slowly raise your hands to your neck with your elbows in and wait for the dog to pass or slowly walk back