Florida Sheriff's Deputy Attacked by Dog During Response to Disturbance Call
What to Know
- Deputies responded to reports of a disturbance and gunshots at a Middleburg residence, encountering a woman and three large dogs.
- One dog attacked Deputy Riley, causing serious injuries, prompting the deputy to shoot and kill the animal for safety.
- The woman, Vichelle Rigney, charged at deputies, made threats, and was arrested for resisting law enforcement without violence.
MIDDLEBURG, Florida -- A disturbance call escalated into a serious dog attack on a Clay County Sheriff’s Office deputy, resulting in significant injuries and one arrest.
Deputies responded to reports of a verbal disturbance and possible gunshots in the 300 block of Foxtail Avenue in Middleburg on Jan. 22 at approximately 6:15 p.m., according to a news release.
Upon arrival, deputies reported hearing a woman yelling from inside a recreational vehicle on the property. As deputies approached the vehicle, they were confronted by the woman and three large-breed dogs. According to the Sheriff’s Office, one of the dogs attacked Deputy Riley, causing serious injuries. While attempting to escape further harm and fearing for his life, Deputy Riley discharged his service weapon, striking and killing the dog.
Authorities identified the woman as Vichelle Rigney. According to deputies, Rigney charged toward them while making verbal threats, interfering with efforts to provide medical aid to Deputy Riley. Deputies Megowan and Engelthaler took Rigney into custody while attempting to protect the injured deputy from the remaining dogs.
During Rigney’s arrest, Deputy Engelthaler and Rigney were both bitten by one of the aggressive dogs, sustaining minor injuries. Deputy Engelthaler deployed his Taser at the animal, causing it to flee the immediate area. Rigney was arrested and charged with resisting law enforcement without violence.
Deputy Riley was transported by Clay County Fire Rescue to a local hospital, where he was admitted for treatment of significant injuries. Deputy Engelthaler was treated for minor injuries and later released. Rigney was also transported to a local hospital for treatment of a dog bite before being booked into the Clay County Jail.
Clay County Animal Services responded to the scene and collected the deceased dog for further testing. The remaining two dogs were located and sheltered with family members who are cooperating with animal services.
The investigation remains active, according to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office.