A female dog walker died from "multiple penetrating dog bites to the neck" and injury to her jugular vein, an inquest has heard.
As reported by BBC News, Natasha Johnston, 28, was believed to have been walking as many as eight dogs on January 12 when tragedy struck in Surrey, United Kingdom. Despite paramedics attending the scene, they were unable to save the woman's life.
Eight canines were seized at the scene and are still in custody of authorities, with a forensic investigation underway.
At the opening of an inquest into the tragedy, coroner Simon Wickens shared his "sincere condolences" to Johnston's loved ones "and all those touched by her life."
The coroner said on Tuesday, per the Evening Standard: "A post-mortem examination was carried out at Royal Surrey County Hospital on January 18.
"The medical cause of death (was) given as 1a) shock and haemorrhage including perforation of the left jugular vein, and in 1b) the pathologist places multiple penetrating dog bites to her neck. The reason for the inquest required is the nature of the traumatic injuries."
Johnston's family has been formally recognized as interested persons amid the investigation.
"I offer Natasha’s family and indeed all those touched by her life my sincere condolences," he said.
A date of June 29 has been set for the inquest to start, however, this is subject to change.
Johnson’s loved ones have spoken about their heartbreak as they grieve the young woman's death.
"This is an extremely difficult time for us and as well as dealing with this sudden loss in our family, the significant level of media interest and the graphic nature of some of the reporting, has been a source of additional distress," a statement said, via the Guardian.
"We continue to appeal for our privacy to be respected during our time of grief."
A 158-lb Leonberger called Shiva is said to be among the dogs in police custody following the ordeal, in which another woman was wounded.
No one will faces charges over the incident, police have already confirmed.
Per the Telegraph, Detective Inspector Josephine Horner, of Surrey Police, had said: "This is a tragic incident in which a young woman lost her life. I know it has caused real concern locally and I thank the community for bearing with us whilst we conducted our inquiries.
"The criminal investigation has now concluded and the information we have gathered will be passed to the Surrey Coroner to assist in the coronial process.
"The dogs continue to be cared for at private kennels to ensure their welfare and their owners are being kept informed."
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