BONFIELD, Ont. — The North Bay Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police is investigating the sudden death of an individual following a reported dog attack in Bonfield.
On November 18, 2024, at approximately 10 a.m., the North Bay OPP, along with the District of Nipissing Paramedics, responded to a 911 call reporting one person had been fatally injured in a dog attack at a residence on James Street in Bonfield.
An 81-year-old woman from Bonfield was pronounced deceased at the scene. The OPP Forensic Identification Services (FIS) and North Bay Detachment Crime Unit provided investigative support.
OPP Const. Kyler Brouwer said in a Canadian Press report three dogs that also reportedly lived in the home were involved in the attack. Brouwer said investigators believe the woman was alone at the time of the attack and died at the home.
"Calls of this nature are exceedingly rare," said Cont. Brouwer, a media relations officer, in an interview Friday. "The dogs did belong in the residence with the victim. But we don't have any information right now as to why this happened."
The investigation is now being led by the Office of the Chief Coroner for Ontario in collaboration with the Ontario Forensic Pathology Service. The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit is also assisting with the investigation. A post-mortem examination was conducted on Nov. 20, in Sudbury.
Police said no foul play is suspected, and no charges are being pursued.
Brouwer said the dogs have been quarantined with a local animal welfare agency, in what he described as a routine step after an attack.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 22, 2024.
The Canadian Press
