Florida couple shares details of attack by adopted pit bull

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Florida. – A Florida couple has recounted their horrific experience after their rescue dog attacked them and the dog died at the hands of police.

“My heart is broken, but it can be healed. My soul will be shattered forever,” said Darylyn Warner as she reflected on the incident that turned her life upside down.

Warner and Chad Bunfill had adopted Harley, a dog they rescued from the care of an abusive owner, and took him in for six weeks without any problems.

“He was just so happy with us. And he showed us his love. And we showed him his love,” Warner recalled.

The situation changed suddenly when a neighbor came to visit.

“He came and just grabbed the back of my calf and twisted his head from side to side,” Warner said.

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After some struggle to free herself, she managed to crawl into Harley’s cage for protection.

“It was the best thing she could do,” Bunfill commented.

Harley then attacked Bunfill and injured his arm and leg.

Officers from the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office arrived a few minutes later.

“He knew there was actually an attack underway,” Warner said.

Harley lunged at them, so the officers shot the dog and saved the couple’s lives. The officers received an award for their quick action.

“I saw him shot four times… I suffer from severe post-traumatic stress disorder,” Warner said.

The couple was hospitalized with severe bleeding. After several operations, they were finally able to return home.

“I just managed it day by day and took it slow,” Bunfill said.

Volusia Sheriff’s Office officers rescued a New Smyrna Beach couple from a “vicious” dog attack on Mother’s Day. (Photo: Volusia Sheriff’s Office)

An autopsy will determine why Harley suddenly became violent. Warner and Bunfill hope that her tragedy will serve as a cautionary tale.

“There needs to be a more thorough background check on the dogs to determine how abused they have actually been,” Warner explained.