Lake Worth police identify pit bull owner after woman seriously injured in dog park attack
Police have identified the owner of a brown pit bull that attacked a 47-year-old woman at a Lake Worth dog park and issued a warrant for her arrest.
The search is on for Autumn Billings, 45, following Wednesday's attack at Dakota Dog Park in the 3200 block of Dakota Trail, according to Lake Worth police.
The attack left the woman bleeding from both arms, her leg, and her right side, police said.
Victim hospitalized in serious condition
The victim, who called 911 after the attack, was taken to a hospital in stable but serious condition after initially receiving aid from officers before medical personnel arrived, police said.
"Autumn - if you see this, please turn yourself in," Lake Worth police said in a social media post. "We also need you to surrender your dog so that it can be properly quarantined. We do not want anyone else to be hurt."
On Sunday, Lake Worth police said the dog was located and safely secured at the Lake Worth Animal Shelter, voluntarily surrendered by the suspect's boyfriend. Police said Billings' boyfriend did not disclose her whereabouts.
Initial confusion during emergency response
Police initially said the pit bull's owner was possibly a homeless woman who fled the scene before officers could identify her. Officers had unknowingly interacted with the suspect before hearing the victim's screams.
"Because they feared for the victim's safety and did not know the suspect or her dog was involved at the time, they immediately left to assist the victim," Lake Worth police said in a news release. "When they returned after obtaining more information, the suspect was gone."
Images captured from body-worn cameras
Authorities collected images of the dog and suspect from body-worn cameras as part of the effort to identify her.
"As a reminder, please do not approach the dog involved," Lake Worth police said. "We continue to keep the victim in our thoughts and prayers and wish her a speedy recovery."
Felony charges under Texas law possible
Felony charges are being considered against the suspect under Texas Health and Safety Code §822.005, which covers attacks by dogs.
Anyone with information about Billings' whereabouts is urged to contact Lake Worth police at (817) 237-1224 or via email at LWCID@lakeworthtx.org.
CBS News Texas will provide updates as more information becomes available.

