FALLBROOK (CNS) - An investigation was underway Monday into the possible mauling death of a woman whose bloodied body was found in a North County backyard along with eight large dogs, sheriff's officials reported.
The 30-year-old victim's cousin made an emergency call about 5:15 p.m. Sunday to report finding her relative's body while checking on her at the home in the 1300 block of Calle Tecolotan in Fallbrook, Sgt. Brian Jenkins said.
Deputies had to call animal-control officers to secure a group of dogs, described as "Olde English Bulldogges." running loose in the yard.
The dead woman's injuries were "consistent with" dog bites, Sgt. Victor Perry said. He added, however, that a cause-of-death ruling would remain on hold pending autopsy findings.
The victim had been house-sitting for the owners of the home while they were out of town, according to Jenkins. Her name was withheld pending family notification.
The county Animal Services Department impounded the dogs, agency spokesman Dan DeSousa said.