KHON KAEN: A 70-year-old man was fatally attacked by three American bully dogs in front of a house in Phu Wiang district, located in the northeastern province of Khon Kaen, on the evening of July 24.
The victim, identified as Lek Seepak of Khor village Moo 1 in tambon Kud Khon Kaen, succumbed to his injuries shortly after the attack. According to reports, the dogs were owned by a couple residing in the same village. Mr. Seepak’s son, Prasert Seepak, 33, was notified of the incident while he was working in Chon Buri. Despite being informed promptly, Mr. Prasert arrived at Khon Kaen University’s Srinagarind Hospital the following day to collect his father’s body for funeral rites.
“I am shocked by this incident,” Mr. Prasert stated, as reported by the Bangkok Post. He mentioned that his father often took evening strolls around the village and was unaware of how he encountered the dogs. “I just learned that he was going to collect money from neighbors who had bought his frogs when he was attacked,” he added, noting that he had not yet spoken with the dogs’ owners, who are school teachers.
The dogs, all American bullies, belong to Sakon Krongyut, 49, and his wife Saowanee, 46. Local leader Suthirak Duangtanoi visited the couple’s house the next day to discuss the incident and advised them to install warning signs to alert others about the presence of potentially dangerous dogs.
Ms. Saowanee explained that the three dogs, aged three and one year old, were typically kept in cages. She reported that the attack occurred while she was out purchasing goods at a local shop. Before leaving, she had closed but not locked the gate. Upon her return, she found the victim being attacked. She promptly secured the dogs and called for medical assistance, but Mr. Seepak had already sustained severe injuries to his head and face. She expressed her willingness to discuss funeral expenses and compensation with the deceased’s family.
The incident has drawn attention to the controversial nature of the American bully breed. Developed as a companion dog and recognized by the American Bully Kennel Club in 2004, this breed is known for its powerful bite force, comparable to that of a Rottweiler. The XL variety, in particular, has faced scrutiny and legal actions following multiple high-profile attacks.
In England and Wales, a ban on the XL bully breed was implemented earlier this year after public outcry over several maulings. Ireland also announced a ban following a fatal attack on a woman and another incident involving a nine-year-old boy. From October 1, it will be illegal to import, breed, or re-sell the XL bully breed in Ireland, with current owners required to neuter their dogs to keep them legally.
It was reported that officials and community members were present at the scene, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and preventive measures regarding potentially dangerous dog breeds.
