A tragic incident occurred on December 23, 2023, in Campinas, Brazil, where 25-year-old Juliana de Oliveira was mauled to death by her own pit bull. The attack took place in her back garden, where she was reportedly unable to escape the dog’s grip, despite the desperate efforts of her partner and nearby neighbours.
Witnesses described the horrifying scene, with a neighbour calling the Civil Police after hearing Ms. de Oliveira’s screams. She attempted to intervene with an iron bar, but it was her husband who ultimately restrained the animal. Emergency responders arrived shortly after but pronounced Ms. de Oliveira dead at the scene due to severe injuries to her arms and abdomen.
Known for treating her dog as if it were a family member, Ms. de Oliveira reportedly spoke about the pit bull “as if it were her own child.” A close friend, speaking to Globo.com, highlighted that she had expressed concerns about the dog’s breed but had never mistreated it. The friend stated, “She worried a lot precisely because it was a pit bull. People are judging her a lot because of where she lived, but she never mistreated the dog. Quite the opposite.”
Ms. de Oliveira was a devoted mother to her eight-month-old daughter, who fortunately was not harmed during the attack. Colleagues from her workplace, a local bakery, remembered her fondly as a caring individual dedicated to her family. One colleague shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, reflecting on their time together and expressing deep sorrow over her loss.
The investigation into this tragic event is ongoing. Lieutenant Nicoly Gonçalves of the Military Police confirmed that they plan to transfer the dog to Campinas’ Department of Animal Protection and Welfare for further evaluation. This incident raises significant concerns about the ownership of potentially dangerous breeds and the responsibilities that come with it, particularly for families with young children.
As the community mourns the loss of an “amazing person,” friends and family remember Ms. de Oliveira not only for her commitment to her family but also for her cheerful spirit. They reflect on the profound impact she had on their lives and the tragic circumstances surrounding her death.
