Crime & Safety

Police Close Case on Pit Bull Mauling

Detectives concluded that a Pacifica woman was killed by her well-cared for family pet.

The case is closed on the by her pet pit bull terrier, police announced today.

The Investigations Division, assisted by the San Mateo County Coroner's Office, the Peninsula Humane Society and two forensic odontologists have concluded that no external factors, such as (a claim by an Examiner.com writer that never was confirmed), outside of the mauling by the 75 to 80 lb. dog in her home contributed to Darla Napora's death, Pacifica Police Captain Bertini said.

Investigators found nothing technically wrong with the pit bull, named Gunner, which was shot and killed by police shortly after they responded the scene of the attack, after they .

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"The necropsy report also did not indicate any abnormality, disease or condition in the dog that may have caused this attack," Capt. Bertini said.

Police also researched the dog's background for signs of abuse or a history of violence. They found neither. 

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In fact, the investigation revealed that the dog was treated as a beloved member of the family.

"We did extensive research [on the dog's history]," Capt. Bertini said. "We obtained all of the vet records, interviewed witnesses that had experience with the dog and family. The dog had no proir incidents of being aggressive with anyone. Every witness said the dog was treated like a child, the dog was spoiled. That‘s the indication we got."

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