HUNTINGBURG, Ind. — The Huntingburg Police Department is investigating a tragic incident that led to the deaths of a 4-year-old girl and a 53-year-old woman inside a residence on North Geiger Street. The police were called to the home around 3:30 p.m. on Monday after a report was made regarding a person found inside with blood around them.
Upon arrival, officers and emergency responders found 53-year-old Oliva Mora Regalado and 4-year-old Evelynn Lopez unresponsive inside the residence. Evelynn was immediately transported to Deaconess Memorial Hospital in Jasper, where she was later pronounced dead. Oliva was declared dead at the scene.
Through subsequent investigations and autopsies, authorities determined that Oliva suffered a medical emergency due to a preexisting medical condition. After Oliva’s collapse, for reasons still unclear, police believe that a group of dogs inside the home attacked Evelynn, who was the only other person present at the time.
According to the police, there were seven dogs inside the residence, including six Pitbulls and one Poodle mix. For safety and to preserve evidence, all of the dogs were sedated and euthanized on the scene. The animals were then transported to the Southern Indiana Purdue Agriculture Center for further laboratory testing.
At this time, the police have indicated that no criminal charges will be filed in connection with the incident. The investigation is still ongoing, and authorities are piecing together the events that led to this heartbreaking tragedy.
The case has raised concerns about dog behavior and the safety of keeping multiple dogs in a home, especially in situations where unexpected medical emergencies may occur. While the investigation continues, the community of Huntingburg is mourning the loss of two lives, one of a young girl and the other of an adult woman.
As the investigation progresses, law enforcement officials are urging the public to remain patient while authorities complete their review of the evidence and facts surrounding the incident.