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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Susie Beever & Adela Whittingham

Woman, 28, who died after being mauled to death by eight dogs she was walking named

A young dog walker mauled to death by eight dogs has been named as Natasha Johnston.

Ms Johnston, 28, was attacked by the dogs while walking them at a beauty spot in Caterham, Surrey, earlier this month.

Surrey Police were called to Gravelly Hill on Thursday, January 12, after reports of a dog attack.

Eight dogs were seized by police at the scene and continue to remain in police custody.

It's understood Ms Johnston was walking the animals as a hired dogwalker at the time.

Police have since confirmed that none of them were banned breeds, and no people have been prosecuted over her death.

Surrey Police Inspector Lydsey Watley making a statement after a woman was killed by a dog at a beauty spot near Caterham (Steve Reigate)

The police force said last week they would be closing the investigation, with a file passed on to the coroner.

The attack occurred at 2.45pm on January 12 at the popular dog walking site, with armed officers and a National Police Air Service helicopter deployed to the scene.

It was reported that one of the dogs had bitten another fellow dog walker, before going after Ms Johnston.

Miss Johnston was tragically pronounced dead at the scene (Surrey Live / Darren Pepe)

Ms Johnston was declared dead at the scene and another woman was rushed to hospital but has since been discharged, police said.

An 11 stone Leonburger named Shiva is reported to have been one of the dogs taken into a police car.

The dog had previously appeared on a BBC show about problematic puppies.

Other dogs reportedly seized include two dachshunds, a cockapoo and a collie.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Josephine Horner, said: “This is a tragic incident in which a young woman lost her life.

Police forensics at the site (SWNS)

"I know it has caused real concern locally and I thank the community for bearing with us whilst we conducted our enquiries.

"The criminal investigation has now concluded and the information we have gathered will be passed to the Surrey Coroner to assist in the coronial process.

“The dogs continue to be cared for at private kennels to ensure their welfare and their owners are being kept informed. We appreciate this is a difficult and uncertain process for them as the forensic work continues.”

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