On May 9, 14-year-old Ryan Hazel was helping take care of the dogs when he was attacked, officials said. Hazel later died from his injuries.
>> On Boston25News.com: Students to honor 14-year-old killed in fatal dog mauling
Dighton Animal Control said none of those dogs were licensed and have been quarantined since the attack. The board discussed the animals' fate at a town meeting on Wednesday night after a tearful tribute to Hazel.
Breaking: Town of Dighton votes to put down 5 dogs involved in the mauling death of 14 year old Ryan Hazel earlier this month #BOSTON25 pic.twitter.com/xrjoBsEX9X
— Ted Daniel (@tvnewzted) May 22, 2019
With support from the Dighton Police, Animal Control and the Bristol County District Attorney's Office, the board voted to put the dogs down without hesitation.
"It was a tough decision however it was the right decision. I won’t be losing sleep over the decision. I don’t think any member will be," said Board of Selectmen Chairman Kenneth Pacheco.
According to the town the dogs consist of 4 Belgian Malinois and 1 Dutch Shepherd
— Ted Daniel (@tvnewzted) May 22, 2019
"Dighton is known as a small town with a big heart, and Dighton’s big heart continues to grieve for Ryan Hazel and his family," said Nancy Goulart of the Board of Selectmen.
About the Author