Family dog kills Butler Co. woman, sheriff says

A 59-year-old woman is dead after her family's dog attacked her Monday afternoon in Madison Township.

The family refers to the dog as a pit bull, but its breed has not been determined by law enforcement officials, according to a news release from the Butler County Sheriff's Office.

Sgt. Melissa Gerhardt, spokeswoman for the sheriff's office, said a neighbor called 911 to report the attack in the 4700 block of Eck Road just after 1 p.m.

"She was out back and saw the victim being attacked in her backyard," she said. "We don't know what prompted the attack."

Cindy Whisman suffered multiple injuries to her face, neck and body, according to the release. She was pronounced dead at the scene, Gerhardt said.

Whisman's husband and a child were home at the time of the incident, but no one else was harmed.

Officials transported the dog to the Animal Friends Humane Society in Hamilton.

The family can get the dog back pending a court hearing and an order by a Butler County judge. If they decide not to keep the dog, it will be euthanized after the investigation is completed, officials said.

"These type of tragedies are happening way too often, family pet or not." said Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones.

Enquirer reporter Keith BieryGolick contributed.