Woman dies after being mauled by family dog while having seizure

SOMERSET, Mass. — A 44-year-old woman died Friday evening after being attacked by the family dog while she was having a seizure, according to a release from the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office. The victim was identified as Melissa Astacio, who family members said was known to have seizures.

Police received the 911 call for the attack just before 5:30 p.m. Friday. After arriving on the scene at Lees River Avenue, officials had to use a Taser to subdue the dog, which police say is an 8-year-old pit bull. Astacio was then taken to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 6:20 p.m.

The dog is currently in possession of the Swansea Animal Rescue at its facility. Police are continuing to investigate.

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