Tennessee woman dead after dog attack; police warn public

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – A woman is dead after police say she was attacked by two dogs in Bolivar early Monday morning.

According to reports, Bolivar Police responded to a 911 call from the area of ​​Sycamore and Mitchell Streets around 1:30 a.m. regarding a woman found bleeding in the street.

The woman was later identified as Theresa Rhodes. She was in critical condition and had suffered “serious injuries” from a dog attack.

According to police, two dogs were in the area at the time of the incident.

In an attempt to provide first aid to Rhodes, an officer shot the dogs, injuring one of them. Both dogs then fled the scene and were never found.

Rhodes was taken to Bolivar General Hospital for medical treatment but later succumbed to her injuries.

Bolivar police said they are working with animal control to locate the dogs involved in the incident.

Police posted an alert on their Facebook page on Monday morning warning the public about the dogs.

They described one of them, caught on camera, as being blue-gray in color and having facial features similar to a pit bull.

“Please be especially vigilant when you are outside or walking in this neighborhood,” Bolivar City Police said.

If you see the dogs, police advise you not to approach them but to call Hardeman County 911 at 731-658-1902.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Ms. Theresa Rhodes during this difficult time,” said Chief Mike Jones of the Bolivar Police Department. “Our officers responded to the situation quickly and professionally and we are actively working to ensure the safety of our community.”

The investigation is ongoing.