Pit Bull Suspected of Attacking Dogs Breaks Through Damaged Fence in Queens

A suspected aggressive pit bull in Queens climbed through a broken fence and attacked a small dog, injuring it severely, according to the owners.

On July 3rd, while walking his dog Percy, a Jack Russell mix, owner David Baldwin, 48, was approached by a tan and white pit bull that had slipped through a damaged fence in a neighbor’s yard. The dog immediately bit Percy’s ribs, prompting Baldwin to scream for help as he tried to fend off the attacker.

A neighbor eventually intervened, aiding Baldwin in shooing away the attacking dogs, including another female pit bull from the same yard. Baldwin recounted, “I got away, but Percy was bleeding, and I was scratched up and crying.” Percy required three days in intensive care, stitches, and medication, costing Baldwin over $8,000 in veterinary bills. The attack left Percy with multiple fractured ribs and other injuries.

Percy, known for his affectionate nature, still shows signs of trauma, trembling when he hears recordings of the attack. Baldwin also filmed a viral TikTok warning dog walkers to stay clear of the premises.

He reported the incident to the police, but officers told him they couldn’t act on dog-on-dog crimes, suggesting he pursue legal action instead. However, a pending bill known as “Penny’s Law,” named after a small dog attacked earlier this year, aims to address this loophole that leaves dog attacks on humans criminal, but not on other dogs.

The same pit bull involved is believed to have injured other dogs in recent months. One owner, Samuel Gutierrez, described how his dog Stella was attacked in April, sustaining a large wound that required costly treatment. Despite reports and city citations to repair the fence, the damage remains unrepaired, allowing the dog to escape with ease.

Guitierrez filed a “dangerous bite” report, and city records show multiple complaints about unleashed dogs and neglect at the property since September 2024. Baldwin hopes that repairs will be made soon to prevent future incidents, emphasizing the danger posed by the broken fence.

“My expenses were extensive, and this has caused immense pain for my dog and myself. If the fence had been secure, Percy wouldn’t have been hurt,” Baldwin said. “It could be a child next time. I just want to see the fence fixed for everyone’s safety.”