Owner of dog involved in fatal attack in Troup County turns himself in
Derrick Parker. Photo courtesy of LaGrange Police Department
LAGRANGE, Ga. - On July 21, Derrick Parker, the suspect in a fatal dog attack that occurred earlier this month, turned himself in to the Troup County Sheriff’s Office. Parker was arrested without incident on outstanding warrants for Involuntary Manslaughter, Reckless Conduct, and Dog Running at Large.
What we know:
The charges stem from an incident on July 11 when officers with the LaGrange Police Department responded to a report of a woman being attacked by dogs at the intersection of Swanson Street and Juniper Street. Upon arrival, officers found an older female victim actively being mauled by two large dogs in the roadway. Officers intervened to stop the attack and rendered emergency aid.
The victim was transported by AMR to Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center for treatment but later died from her injuries. She was identified as Theresa Patterson by her grandson, who said his grandmother was the heart of their family and was known for being outspoken and witty.
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Following the attack, the LaGrange Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division took over the case and issued warrants for Parker.
What you can do:
Anyone with additional information related to the investigation is urged to contact Detective Blane at 706-883-2623. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Tip411 system by using the mobile app, visiting the online portal, or texting the keyword LAGRANGE to 847411.