(FRESNO) - The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office has arrested and charged Samuel Cartwright, 47, in connection to the death of a 71-year-old Fresno man who was mauled to death by dogs.
The Sheriff’s Office, along with Fort Bend Animal Control and the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office, conducted an investigation this week into the death of Freddy Garcia, who was fatally attacked by seven dogs owned by Cartwright. The attack occurred on July 18 in the 4300 block of Mark Terrace Lane in Fresno as Garcia was walking to a neighborhood store. The investigation led to the identity of Cartwright, the owner of the dogs who mauled Garcia. All seven dogs—who are a pit bull mix—were captured by sheriff’s deputies and Animal Control.
Cartwright remains in custody at the Fort Bend County Jail and has been charged with attack by dog resulting in death, which is a second-degree felony. His bond is set at $100,000.
Sheriff Eric Fagan says he is thankful the dogs have been taken off the streets to prevent another dog attack.
“This devastating tragedy didn’t have to happen. I extend my deepest condolences to the Garcia family and his neighbors as they adjust to the loss of Mr. Garcia,” Fagan said. “Special thanks go out to our deputies, Fort Bend Animal Services Director Rene Vasquez, and Fort Bend District Attorney Brian Middleton for the collaborative work of capturing the dogs and making an arrest.”