Mum-of-two discovered useless in woodland after canine assault as investigation launched
Lucia Tognela, 60, was discovered in woodland covered in deep dog bites, with a post-mortem ordered to determine the cause of death as five Dogo Argentino dogs were seized from their owner
Responders who arrived at the scene were unable to revive the victim, identified as Lucia Tognela.(Image: Jam Press)
A 60 year old mother-of-two has been discovered dead in woodland bearing severe dog bite injuries. A man contacted emergency services after stumbling upon the body on a footpath on Thursday April 23. Paramedics who reached the scene were unable to resuscitate the victim, named as Lucia Tognela.
Lucia – a local from Bianzone, Italy – is thought to have been taking a solitary stroll in neighbouring Trivigno di Tirano, where her remains were found. Officers have now confiscated five mastiff-type Dogo Argentino dogs belonging to the local man who initially discovered her.
According to residents and walkers, the animals were frequently permitted to wander unleashed and unmuzzled. The dog owner reportedly allowed them to roam free despite previous incidents involving attacks on ramblers.
His negligent handling of the animals had already prompted multiple complaints and police visits, even though he had only relocated to the area three years prior.
A post-mortem examination has been commissioned to establish whether Lucia experienced a sudden fatal medical event, such as cardiac arrest, before being attacked – or whether she was fatally savaged, reports the Mirror.
Her family members have informed detectives she had no cardiac issues or other health concerns. Saliva samples collected from her injuries will undergo DNA analysis to confirm whether the wounds were inflicted by the confiscated animals.
The dog owner had allegedly spotted one of his pets covered in blood before making the grim discovery. The 46 year old may face investigation for failing to control dangerous animals and manslaughter. Investigators have dismissed the possibility of an attack by wild animals such as wolves or bears, as reported by NeedToKnow.
In the UK, the Dogo Argentino breed is outlawed under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991, but it remains legal in Italy.
Lucia, a married former surveyor with two grown-up children, was an avid walker and choir singer in her hometown of Villa di Tirano, where she once served as a councillor. She also owned a second home in Trivigno di Tirano and was reportedly fearful of dogs.
Villa di Tirano’s mayor Franco Marantelli Colombin expressed his sorrow: “There are no words for a tragedy like this, only deep anger. That breed of dog is particularly aggressive, and anyone responsible for it should have taken that into account. There’s nothing more to say: we can only stand with Lucia’s family in this moment of profound grief.”
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