Newberry County, South Carolina, October 16, 2025
News Summary
A U.S. Postal Service mail carrier was severely injured after being mauled by a pit bull during a package delivery in Newberry County, South Carolina. The attack occurred when the carrier attempted to retreat to their vehicle, but the dog aggressively pursued them. Emergency responders, including local police and medical services, quickly arrived at the scene. The mail carrier suffered multiple injuries, requiring emergency medical treatment and a potential hospital stay. The case is currently under investigation, highlighting ongoing safety concerns for delivery personnel around aggressive animals.
Newberry County, South Carolina – A U.S. Postal Service (USPS) mail carrier suffered severe injuries following a pit bull mauling during a package delivery on Saturday, October 11, 2025. The attack occurred at a residence on Pope Street, where the black and white pit bull aggressively pursued the mail carrier after they attempted to retreat to their vehicle.
Emergency responders were quick to arrive at the scene, with the Newberry City Police Department (NCPD) being the first on the scene. City officers used pepper spray to subdue the dog, which had continued to attack the victim. In addition to the police response, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were called in to provide medical assistance to the injured mail carrier.
Following stabilization at the scene, the victim was transported by ambulance to a pre-arranged landing zone in Little Mountain. From there, the individual was airlifted to Greenville Memorial Hospital for further treatment. The injuries sustained in the attack included damage to the ankles, legs, arms, and head, with the potential for significant nerve damage that may require skin grafts.
The owner of the dog, Gerardo Ortiz, stated that the pit bull was on its own property at the time of the incident. The dog was reportedly wearing an electric fence collar. As of now, no criminal charges have been filed against Ortiz, although the case remains under investigation by local authorities.
This frightening incident sheds light on the dangers faced by mail carriers and other delivery personnel, particularly in rural areas of South Carolina, where the risk of aggressive animals presents ongoing safety concerns. The USPS has long recognized the hazards posed to their employees by dogs while on delivery routes, leading to numerous discussions about preventive measures to protect mail carriers.
Emergency Response and Investigation
Upon receiving the distress call, Newberry City Police quickly mobilized to the scene, emphasizing the swift response times that can be critical in emergencies involving animal attacks. Investigators are currently looking into additional safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future and have urged residents to ensure their pets are properly secured when delivery personnel are in the area.
Context of Dog Attacks on Delivery Personnel
Dog attacks on postal workers and delivery personnel are unfortunately common across the United States. Despite various efforts to educate pet owners about responsible pet ownership and the importance of yard security, these incidents continue to pose a significant threat to those in the delivery business. The USPS reports thousands of dog attacks on their workers each year, prompting ongoing training and safety initiatives aimed at reducing risks.
Future Developments
Authorities will continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident. Community members and USPS representatives are urged to stay informed about local safety measures and regulations pertaining to pet ownership and mail delivery in the area. This includes ensuring that pets are confined and controlled during delivery hours to help prevent further occurrences of this nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the U.S. Postal Service mail carrier in Newberry County, South Carolina?
A U.S. Postal Service mail carrier was mauled by a pit bull during a package delivery on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at a home on Pope Street.
What injuries did the mail carrier sustain during the attack?
The mail carrier suffered injuries including damages to their ankles, legs, arms, and head, with nerve damage that may require skin grafts.
What actions did the police take in response to the mauling?
City officers used spray to subdue the attacking dog and provided emergency medical aid to the victim.
Has the dog’s owner faced any charges?
No criminal charges have been filed yet, but the case remains under investigation.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- FitsNews: South Carolina Mail Carrier Hospitalized Following Pit Bull Attack
- ABC7: 17-Year-Old Girl Mauled by Large Group of Dogs
- VV Daily Press: Teen Girl Severely Mauled by 10 or More Large Dogs
- People: Teen Girl Mauled by Pack of Dogs While Jogging in California
- BBC: Teen Girl Mauled by Dogs
- Wikipedia: Dog Attack
- Google Search: Dog Attacks on Postal Workers
- Google Scholar: Dog Attacks on Delivery Workers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Dog Attacks
- Google News: Mail Carrier Dog Attack
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
