Florida Woman Mauled to Death by Neighbor's Dogs; Owner Charged After Fatal Attack

Linda Cutler was arrested after her dogs allegedly killed Jodi Cowan. (Brevard County Sheriff's Office; Dominica Midkiff)     

COCOA, Florida — A Florida community is mourning the loss of a woman who was fatally attacked by two dogs while walking in her neighborhood, an incident that has led to criminal charges against the animals' owner and renewed concerns about dangerous dogs and owner responsibility.

Authorities say 50-year-old Jodi Cowan was attacked during the early morning hours while walking her small dog on Blue Bonnet Drive in Cocoa. Investigators allege that two dogs, identified as Max and Mako, escaped from a nearby property and violently mauled Cowan, causing catastrophic injuries.

Fatal Attack Captured on Security Video

According to the Brevard County Sheriff's Office, surveillance footage from a neighboring home captured the horrific attack. Officials say Cowan attempted to protect her own dog as the larger animals charged toward her. The attack reportedly continued until she was forced to the ground and dragged across the roadway.

Cowan's longtime partner, Donnell Smith, rushed to her aid after hearing her screams. Authorities say he attempted to fight off the attacking dogs while simultaneously calling 911 for emergency assistance. Despite being transported to a trauma center, Cowan later died from her injuries.

Owner Arrested and Charged

Following an extensive investigation, authorities arrested 29-year-old Linda Cutler, the owner of the dogs involved in the attack. Investigators allege that Cutler knew her dogs had a history of escaping from her property and had previously displayed aggressive behavior toward neighbors.

Sheriff Wayne Ivey stated that multiple complaints had been made regarding the dogs over an extended period. Records indicate law enforcement and animal services had received numerous calls from residents concerned about the animals roaming freely throughout the neighborhood.

Cutler now faces a manslaughter charge and could face significant prison time if convicted. Prosecutors allege her failure to properly secure the animals contributed directly to the deadly attack.

Neighbors Say Dogs Had a History of Aggression

Residents in the Cocoa neighborhood claim the dogs had become a source of fear long before the fatal incident. Several neighbors reported previous encounters with the animals and say complaints had been filed with authorities regarding aggressive behavior and repeated escapes from the property.

Some residents described feeling unsafe walking outdoors due to concerns that the dogs could attack at any moment. The tragedy has sparked debate over whether stronger enforcement measures should have been taken before the fatal encounter occurred.

Florida pit bulls Mako and Max mauled Jodi Cowan to death, the Brevard County Sheriff's Office said. (Brevard County Sheriff's Office)

Dogs to Be Euthanized

Officials confirmed that the dogs involved in the attack have been taken into custody by animal services. Authorities indicated that both animals are expected to be euthanized following the investigation.

The case has reignited discussions across Florida about dangerous dog laws, owner accountability, and the responsibility of pet owners to prevent aggressive animals from posing a threat to the public.

Community Demands Answers

As friends, family members, and neighbors continue to grieve, many are demanding answers about why the situation was not addressed sooner. Community members say the tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the consequences that can result when known safety concerns go unresolved.

The investigation remains ongoing, and prosecutors are expected to continue reviewing evidence as the criminal case moves forward through the court system.

Key Takeaways

• Jodi Cowan, 50, was fatally attacked while walking in a Cocoa, Florida neighborhood.
• Authorities say two dogs escaped from a nearby property before the attack.
• The dogs' owner, Linda Cutler, has been charged with manslaughter.
• Neighbors reported a history of complaints involving the animals.
• The dogs have been taken into custody and are expected to be euthanized.
• The case has sparked renewed debate over dangerous dog laws and owner responsibility.