A tragic incident in St. Louis has left a family grieving the loss of 62-year-old Gladys Anthony, who was fatally mauled by three dogs on January 15. The attack occurred in her own backyard in the Walnut Park West neighborhood, where the dogs escaped through a hole in the fence at their owner’s home nearby. Gladys, who was deaf, didn’t hear the dogs approaching, leaving her vulnerable. Her family is devastated by the loss, with her niece, Vrene Green, expressing the heartbreak of losing someone who would never see her grandchildren grow up.
Gladys was severely injured during the attack and later died from her injuries in surgery. Her husband, 73-year-old Clarence Anthony, was also attacked and sustained bites to his arms and legs, but he is expected to recover. Police report that Clarence attempted to defend his wife by using a broom and firing gunshots to distract the dogs. The dogs involved are now in the custody of Animal Control.
The family is calling for justice, demanding that the dogs be euthanized and their owner be charged. Keshia Anthony, Gladys’ daughter, expressed anger over the lack of remorse shown by the dog owner, who has not contacted the family. Under Missouri law, a dog owner could face felony charges if their dog kills a person. The Department of Health’s Animal Care and Control is investigating the incident and may declare the dogs dangerous based on their findings. If deemed dangerous, the owner will have 35 days to comply with regulations or surrender the dogs, otherwise, they will be euthanized.
Gladys’ family is particularly upset with the process, believing that the dogs should be immediately euthanized. In response to this tragedy, Alderman Pamela Boyd, who represents the area, is considering legislation to strengthen local ordinances regarding dangerous animals. The Department of Health emphasized that its investigation process aims to ensure fairness and community safety.
