Volusia County officials rescue couple from dog attack

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Florida. – Two Volusia County officers receive lifesaving awards for rescuing a couple from their dog.

The sheriff’s office said it happened over Mother’s Day weekend when the dog began attacking and mauling the couple. On Thursday, News 6 was there as the couple was reunited with their heroes.

“I’m physically very strong and can get things done, but mentally I’m exhausted,” said Darylyn Warner.

Warner and her partner Chad Bunfill are currently recovering but have a long road ahead of them.

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In early April, the couple adopted their first dog ever, Harley.

“None of the vets thought about how he would react or whether he might be mean or aggressive,” Bunfill said. “I’ve never had any problems around other animals, other people. Children, no problems with children.”

Six weeks later, however, on Mother’s Day, Warner said she cut her hand and her neighbor came over to help her clean it.

Harley suddenly became aggressive.

“Suddenly I felt a stabbing pain and when I looked down he was there, moving his head back and forth,” she said.

Warner said the dog ripped off her calf.

“He (Bunfill) finally got down on the ground to get Harley’s attention. That’s when I was able to crawl into the cage,” Warner said.

Warner had crawled into the dog cage to lock himself in. Bunfill was then attacked and the neighbor ran out and called 911.

Deputies Justin De La Rosa and Tyler Blackwell stormed into the couple’s home.

“All I see are Deputy De La Rosa’s eyes. Our eyes met and I knew they were there to save us,” Warner said.

Deputies told News 6 the scene was shocking.

“The dog was attached to him, Chad, and didn’t seem to want to let go. Then the dog started charging at us, and from that point on we had limited options,” he said.

The officers shot the dog.

“I saw Harley get shot, but he tried to attack the officers,” Warner said.

This moment is now burned into the minds of all four.

“My dog ​​is like my son and it’s not easy. It’s just as heavy as any other life,” De La Rosa said.

Warner and Bunfill said the recovery will take months.

“My only problem is post-traumatic stress disorder. I wake up screaming at night,” Warner said. “I was in the hospital for nine days. He was there for a little over two weeks.”

It’s been an adjustment, but the couple said they’re moving forward with the help of their heroes.

“They welcomed us into their home and when they were at their worst, we were there and I’m just glad they’re OK,” De La Rosa said.

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