Nova Scotia RCMP reported that a 13-year-old boy was fatally attacked by three large-breed dogs, including a Rottweiler and two Cane Corsos near Shelburne, N.S. The victim, Drew Nickerson, succumbed to his injuries at a Halifax hospital on Monday, following the incident on Upper Sandy Cove Road in Welshtown, located approximately 12 kilometers north of Shelburne.
According to Staff Sgt. Mark MacPherson in an interview with CBC News, the dogs ran onto the road while Nickerson was cycling past a property near his home. Video footage of the attack was obtained from a neighboring residence, as authorities work on gathering facts and understanding the circumstances surrounding the tragic event.
The dogs were off their owner’s property during the attack, and one of the owners rushed the injured boy to the hospital due to the severity of his injuries. MacPherson mentioned that details regarding the restraint systems in place at the time are still under investigation.
No prior complaints regarding the dogs were recorded by the police or local animal control. The investigation is ongoing, and it is too early to determine if charges will be filed. RCMP are actively collecting and analyzing video evidence, conducting door-to-door inquiries, and interviewing individuals about the dogs’ activities leading up to the incident.
The dog owners have been cooperative with the investigation, and the dogs were euthanized by a veterinarian. The tragic incident has deeply impacted the community of Shelburne County, prompting support initiatives like a fundraising raffle organized by fisherman Conway Hutt to assist the Nickerson family.
Hutt, along with other community members, donated prizes for the raffle, which garnered significant support both locally and from distant regions. An online fundraising campaign for Drew’s mother has also raised nearly $50,000, with heartfelt tributes pouring in for the boy’s love for outdoor activities and his positive impact on those around him.