A harrowing dog attack on a minor has led to a significant legal battle in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. On August 22, 2024, Tiffany Lehman filed a complaint on behalf of her minor child, D.F., against Keturah Wells, Scott Reed, and Jennifer Edge Williamson in the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County.
The lawsuit stems from an incident that occurred on July 16, 2024. According to the complaint, D.F. was visiting a friend at 345 Orchard Street when he was attacked by a pitbull mix named "Hov," owned by defendants Wells and Reed. The dog allegedly left its residence at 349 Orchard Street and entered the neighboring property where it attacked D.F., causing severe injuries including multiple lacerations and puncture wounds to his right arm and leg. A neighbor had to intervene physically to remove the dog from D.F.
The plaintiff claims that all defendants were aware of the dog's aggressive tendencies but failed to take appropriate measures to prevent such an attack. The complaint states that the dog had bitten another child just two weeks prior to this incident. Furthermore, there were no signs or warnings about the dangerous dog on or near the premises.
Lehman accuses Wells and Reed of negligence for failing to restrain or properly train their dog despite knowing its violent propensities. She also alleges that they violated Pennsylvania's Dangerous Dog Law by not muzzling or adequately supervising the animal. The complaint extends liability to Williamson as well, who owns the property where Wells and Reed reside. Lehman argues that Williamson knew about the dog's presence and its dangerous behavior but did nothing to mitigate the risk.
As a result of this attack, D.F. has suffered severe physical injuries that may be permanent, including scarring and muscle damage. He also faces emotional distress and diminished future earning capacity due to his injuries. Lehman is seeking compensatory damages for medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, and other economic losses.
Representing the plaintiff are attorneys Noah Paul Fardo, William F. Rogel, and Jaclyn M. DiPaola from Flaherty Fardo Rogel & Amick LLC. The case will be presided over by judges in the Civil Division of Allegheny County's Court of Common Pleas under Case No.: GD-.