Three Tampa Bay-area Women Hospitalized After Pit Bull Attack

Authorities say three Tampa Bay-area women are hospitalized after a pit bull attacked them.

According to the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, an 18-year-old woman went to retrieve the dog from a pool area outside a Bradenton home when the animal attacked her Sunday afternoon. Authorities say the woman's twin sister and her mother were attacked as they tried to help her.

The women escaped by entering the home and closing a door behind them. All were hospitalized in stable condition.

Sheriff's Office spokesman Dave Bristow tells The Herald that the mother suffered the most serious injuries. Bristow says the 45-year-old woman had been watching the dog for her niece.

The dog was taken into custody by county animal services. Authorities say it may be euthanized pending an investigation.