FLORENCE, S.C. (WMBF/Gray News) – Family members are mourning a 71-year-old mother and grandmother from South Carolina who police say was killed in a dog attack while riding her bicycle.
Police say first responders were dispatched Wednesday evening to Brigadoone Lane in Florence for an injured bicyclist. Fire crews were the first to the scene, where they discovered a 71-year-old woman with “severe injuries from a dog bite.” She was taken to the hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
Florence County Coroner Keith von Lutcken identified the victim as Karen Nelson, according to WMBF.
During the investigation, officers learned Nelson was riding her bike through the area when a dog broke free from its leash and attacked her, knocking her off her bike. The dog bit her, causing multiple traumatic injuries.
Nelson’s loved ones say it was her husband who found her and called for help.
Her son-in-law, Bill Crawford, says the family is now reflecting on the woman who was a mother, grandmother and best friend.
“Her smile, her laughter, she had an infectious laugh. Just that special kind of warmth that draws you to somebody and makes you feel loved,” Crawford said.
Loved ones also say Nelson was a passionate music teacher.
“She was a really gifted piano teacher,” Crawford said. “We’ll miss her.”
Nelson’s body was scheduled for autopsy Friday morning at the Medical University of South Carolina.
Animal control was on the scene of the investigation and took possession of the dog involved in the attack. Police say it is expected to be euthanized.
The owners of the dog signed a voluntary surrender form agreeing to the animal being euthanized, according to Florence Police Capt. Stephen Starling.
Starling says they will no longer have to hold a hearing now, and officials will schedule a date for the euthanization.
Police earlier said the dog didn’t appear to have any previous complaints.
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