Harrison Township, OH – A tragic incident has led to the arrest of two residents from Ashville following the death of a 73-year-old woman, who succumbed to injuries sustained in a dog attack. The incident occurred on Thursday in the 600 block of Kildow Court, prompting a response from the Harrison Township Fire Department at approximately 3:30 p.m.
According to Law Enforcement the 73 year old woman JoAnn Echelbarger was attacked by two dogs while working in her flower beds at her home.
The victim suffered severe injuries during the attack of two dogs and went into cardiac arrest while being transported to Grant Medical Center. Despite efforts by medical personnel, she tragically passed away at the hospital.
Authorities have confirmed that both dogs involved in the attack were euthanized, one at the scene of the attack, the other later after it had run off and attacked and killed another dog when it returned home it was shot and killed.
Around 6 pm on Monday Pickaway County Swat arrived at the home of the dogs and locked down the area. Adam Withers, 35 years old from Ashville, and his mother Susan Withers, 61 years old from Ashville were arrested both have been charged with involuntary manslaughter a felony charge, and Failure to Restrain the dog. The victim’s family may also file a wrongful death lawsuit in civil court, even if the defendant is acquitted of the criminal charge.
The arrests of the two Ashville residents mark a significant development in the ongoing investigation. The community is mourning the loss of the victim, and officials are expected to examine the circumstances that led to this tragic event closely. Questions remain due to why the dogs had not been removed due to problems before.
As the investigation unfolds, more information will likely be released regarding the legal implications for the arrested individuals and the ongoing safety measures in the community.
