Florida dog attack leaves woman dead as investigation continues in Brevard County

A 50-year-old Florida woman has died after being attacked and dragged by two dogs near her home in Cocoa, with authorities continuing to investigate the incident.

Jodi Cowan was walking her small dog in the early hours of May 19 when she was allegedly attacked by two larger dogs, according to local media reports citing the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO).

Surveillance footage reportedly shows Cowan carrying her pet as the two dogs chased her into the roadway. 

The video cuts off just before the moment of the attack, officials said.

Cowan sustained severe injuries and was transported to hospital, where she later died from her wounds.

Her partner, Donnell Smith, said he witnessed the aftermath of the attack and rushed to help her, describing a chaotic scene in which he tried to fend off the dogs while calling emergency services.

“I saw the silhouette of the two dogs dragging my wife down the road,” Smith told local media, adding that he found Cowan critically injured and attempted to provide aid until paramedics arrived.

He said he eventually called 911, after which Cowan was airlifted to hospital but died approximately two hours later. Smith described her as a “great woman” who “loved people and dogs.”

Authorities said the incident remains under investigation by the BCSO animal services division. 

As of the latest update, no charges have been filed against the dogs’ owner.

Under Florida law, dogs deemed dangerous can be seized and held during investigations, and owners may face criminal charges ranging from misdemeanors to felony offences depending on the severity of the case.

Officials have not released further details on the ownership status of the animals involved or whether they have been taken into custody.