Houston Woman Harriet Phillips Killed in Dog Attack by Staffordshire Bull Terriers

On March 23, 2025, a tragic event unfolded in Northeast Houston, Texas, claiming the life of 65-year-old Harriet Phillips. According to the Houston Police Department and BARC Houston, Phillips was fatally attacked by three Staffordshire Bull Terriers, a breed often associated with pit bulls, in her backyard located in the 8000 block of Wayside Village Way. The dogs gained entry to her property by breaking through a shared fence, leading to the devastating incident.

The owner of the dogs did not witness the attack but discovered Phillips covered in blood on her back porch and promptly called 911. Despite the swift response from emergency services, Phillips was pronounced dead at the scene. Animal control authorities have since euthanized the three dogs involved. At this time, no charges have been filed, and the medical examiner’s office has classified Phillips’ death as an accident, attributing it to multiple blunt and sharp force injuries sustained during the attack.