61-year-old woman attacked and killed by dogs: Police in Tennessee

Two dogs attacked a woman walking down the street at night and left her bleeding on the street, Tennessee authorities said.

Theresa Rhodes, 61, died in a hospital after the attack, Bolivar police said in a press release.

A 911 call came in around 1:30 a.m. on July 1, police said. Rhodes was found in the street, covered in blood from “severe injuries,” while two dogs were loitering nearby, police said.

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To get close enough to safely help the woman, an officer shot one of the dogs, causing both to run away, police said.

Rhodes was taken to the hospital where she was pronounced dead.

The city of Bolivar issued a warning that residents should be “hypervigilant” when walking in the neighborhood until animal control or police can find the dogs that attacked Rhodes.

“Our officers responded to the situation quickly and professionally and we are actively working to ensure the safety of our community,” said Bolivar Police Chief Mike Jones.

Investigators are investigating the circumstances that led to the attack.

Bolivar is located about 70 miles east of Memphis.

What you should know about dog attacks

In the United States, more than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs each year, and nearly 800,000 of those people require medical care, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Any dog ​​can bite if they are scared or nervous, or if they want to be alone. You should never approach a dog that appears angry or frightened, the CDC said.

If an unknown dog approaches you, authorities say you should:

• Stay calm and quiet.

• Avoid eye contact with the dog.

• Don’t panic, don’t make loud noises. Don’t run.

• Say “No” or “Go home” in a low voice. Stand with your body side facing the dog.

• Slowly raise your hands towards your neck and then slowly pull them back again.