San Bernardino Dog Mauling: Woman Killed, Park Safety Under Scrutiny – Legal Options for Victims

A tragic incident in San Bernardino has brought park safety and dog owner liability into sharp focus after a woman was killed in a dog mauling. This event underscores the potential dangers of dog attacks and raises critical questions about public safety and legal recourse for victims and their families. In 2022, nearly 49,000 people in California sought emergency room treatment for dog bite injuries, highlighting the severity and prevalence of this issue.

The San Bernardino Attack: A Community’s Grief and Concerns

On August 1, 2025, Teodora Mendoza, 51, lost her life after being mauled by a pack of dogs at Perris Hill Park in San Bernardino. Another individual sustained serious injuries in the attack. Responding officers encountered multiple dogs, and when at least one charged, an officer shot and killed the pit bull. Animal control removed 14 dogs from the park following the incident. The presence of a homeless encampment near the attack site has further complicated the situation, raising questions about animal control and park management.

This tragedy has ignited a debate about safety measures in public spaces and the responsibilities of dog owners, especially when dogs are in public areas.

California Dog Bite Law: Strict Liability

California operates under a “strict liability” dog bite law. This means that a dog owner is liable for damages if their dog bites someone in a public place or lawfully on private property, including the owner’s property. This liability applies regardless of the dog’s history of aggression or the owner’s knowledge of any vicious tendencies.

Key aspects of California’s dog bite law:

Strict Liability: Owners are responsible for bite injuries, even if the dog has never bitten anyone before.
Location Matters: The law applies if the bite occurs in a public place or if the victim is lawfully on private property.
No “One-Bite Rule”: Unlike some states, California does not have a “one-bite rule” where owners are only liable after their dog has bitten someone once.
Negligence: Even if there is no bite, a victim can file a negligence claim if a dog injures them. This might occur if a dog jumps on someone, causing them to fall and get hurt.

Legal Options for Dog Bite Victims in San Bernardino

If you or a loved one has been injured by a dog in San Bernardino, you have legal options. Understanding these options is the first step toward seeking justice and compensation for your injuries.

Personal Injury Claim: You can file a personal injury claim against the dog owner to recover damages.
Statute of Limitations: In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury. It is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within this timeframe.
Damages You Can Recover:
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for all medical treatment related to the dog bite, including emergency care, surgeries, medications, and ongoing therapy.
- Lost Wages: Recovery of lost income if the injuries caused you to miss work.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the attack.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for any personal property damaged during the attack, such as clothing or a cell phone.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or recklessness on the part of the dog owner, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the owner and deter similar behavior in the future.
Criminal Charges: A dog owner may face criminal charges if their dog is considered dangerous or vicious, especially if the dog has a history of attacks.

Defenses to Dog Bite Claims

While California’s strict liability law is favorable to victims, dog owners may raise certain defenses to avoid or minimize liability. Common defenses include:

Trespassing: If the victim was trespassing on the owner’s property when the bite occurred, the owner may not be liable.
Provocation: If the victim provoked the dog, the owner may argue that the dog was acting in self-defense.
Assumption of Risk: If the victim knowingly assumed the risk of being bitten, such as by petting a dog with a known history of aggression, the owner may not be liable.

Park Safety and Community Responsibility

The San Bernardino dog mauling highlights the need for increased vigilance and proactive measures to ensure park safety. This includes:

Enforcement of Leash Laws: Strict enforcement of leash laws in public parks and other areas.
Animal Control Measures: Effective animal control services to address stray dogs and dogs with a history of aggression.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about responsible dog ownership and how to prevent dog bites.
Community Involvement: Encouraging community members to report stray animals and any signs of potentially dangerous dogs.

The Role of a Dog Bite Attorney

Navigating the complexities of California dog bite law can be challenging. An experienced San Bernardino dog bite attorney can provide invaluable assistance by:

Investigating the incident: Gathering evidence to support your claim, including police reports, animal control records, and witness statements.
Identifying all liable parties: Determining who is responsible for the attack, including the dog owner and potentially other parties, such as landlords or property managers.
Negotiating with insurance companies: Dealing with insurance adjusters to reach a fair settlement.
Filing a lawsuit: Representing you in court if a settlement cannot be reached.
Maximizing your compensation: Ensuring you receive the full amount of damages you are entitled to under the law.

Seeking Justice and Preventing Future Tragedies

The tragic death in Perris Hill Park serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of dog attacks and the importance of responsible dog ownership. By understanding your legal rights and taking proactive steps to ensure public safety, you can help prevent future tragedies and seek justice for victims of dog bite injuries.

If you or someone you know has been affected by a dog bite in San Bernardino, it is crucial to seek legal guidance. Contact a qualified personal injury attorney to discuss your options and protect your rights.