A 60-year-old New York woman was killed in a horrifying attack by her family’s St. Bernard after the dog reportedly became startled inside their home.
Lisa K. Bundy died Monday, November 9, after the couple’s 6-year-old dog attacked her in the neck during a frightening encounter that unfolded while her husband was just feet away.
According to the Lewiston Police Department, officers rushed to the family’s home on Saunders Settlement Road in Lewiston, near Youngstown, shortly after 9 a.m. following a frantic 911 call reporting a serious dog attack.
When emergency responders arrived, they discovered Bundy with a severe neck injury and in cardiac arrest. Despite desperate attempts to save her life, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators later learned that the family’s pet had been inside a bedroom with Bundy’s husband while contractors were working elsewhere in the house.
The bedroom door was closed, apparently keeping the dog separated from the workers.
According to a police incident report, Bundy entered the room, and an unexpected confrontation occurred between her and the massive dog.
Her husband told investigators he believed the St. Bernard may have become startled, triggering the sudden attack.
The dog then bit Bundy around her neck and throat.
Her husband immediately tried to intervene and help his wife, but her injuries were too severe. He called 911 as the situation rapidly deteriorated.
Police found Bundy lying in the hallway and began lifesaving measures before emergency medical personnel took over.
Lewiston Police Chief Michael Salada said investigators believe the presence of unfamiliar workers inside the home may have contributed to the dog’s reaction.
“We believe he might have been just spooked,” Salada told WBEN, explaining that the contractors could have created an unusually stressful environment for the animal.
However, authorities have not established exactly what caused the dog to attack its owner.
Following the tragedy, the St. Bernard was removed from the residence and transferred to the Niagara County SPCA.
Local reports indicate that the dog is expected to be euthanized.
The incident is especially shocking because St. Bernards are widely known as gentle giants. Originally bred for mountain rescue work, the enormous dogs are generally recognized for their affectionate personalities and close bonds with families.
However, even typically friendly dogs can react unpredictably when frightened, stressed, or startled, particularly when unfamiliar people or unusual activity disrupt their normal surroundings.
Investigators processed the home and examined the circumstances surrounding Bundy’s death. No criminal charges have been announced.
