The neighborhood where the tragic dog attack took place, highlighting the need for better pet management.
In a shocking incident, 81-year-old Barbara Stewart was fatally attacked by three dogs in New Orleans East. The owner faces charges of negligent homicide as the community mourns this tragic loss and grapples with concerns over pet safety.
In a heart-wrenching incident that has left the New Orleans community in shock, an 81-year-old woman, Barbara Stewart, lost her life following a brutal attack by three dogs. The attack took place on March 20, 2025, around 9 a.m. while Stewart was simply taking out her trash in the peaceful neighborhood of Brookfield Drive in New Orleans East.
What began as a routine chore quickly escalated into a tragic encounter. Stewart was approached by the dogs as she stepped outside, leading to a severe mauling that left her with multiple injuries. Despite the rapid response from emergency services, who rushed her to the hospital, Stewart ultimately succumbed to her injuries. The Orleans Parish Coroner’s office later confirmed that her death resulted from multiple cuts and abrasions suffered during the attack.
The owner of the dogs, Chad Bridges, a 37-year-old man living nearby, has now been charged with negligent homicide. This tragic incident has raised many questions regarding the management of pets and neighborhood safety. Reports indicate that one of the dogs involved in the attack has been euthanized at Bridges’ request, while the remaining two dogs are undergoing a mandatory 10-day quarantine.
This incident is not just a private tragedy; it points to broader issues within the neighborhood. Complaints from local residents have emerged, detailing ongoing problems with these dogs escaping their yard, raising significant safety concerns. Reports suggest that a broken section of fencing allowed the dogs to break free and attack Stewart.
During court hearings, evidence came to light showcasing videos of Bridges allowing his dogs to roam unleashed, displaying aggressive behavior. Prosecutors argued that the negligence exhibited by the owner not only led to Stewart’s death but also posed a serious threat to the safety of the entire community. The legal ramifications are significant, with many feeling that this should have been an incident that never occurred.
As the family mourns their loss, they have expressed their intentions to pursue civil action against Bridges. They are seeking accountability for what they believe was a preventable death. Stewart’s family described her as a devoted grandmother and a cherished friend, a woman who brought joy to her loved ones. They aim to keep her memory alive in the face of this unimaginable tragedy.
The court date for Bridges is set for early April, where it will be determined if any additional charges will be placed against him and what will happen to the remaining dogs involved in the attack. As the community comes to terms with this devastating event, many are left wondering how such occurrences can be prevented in the future.
The loss of Barbara Stewart is deeply felt, and her family and friends are left to navigate the pain of her absence while advocating for safety in their neighborhoods. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership and the profound impact of negligence.
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