Texas College Student Madison Riley Mauled to Death While Dog-Sitting Three Pit Bulls in Tyler

TYLER, TEXAS — A tragic incident in Smith County has left a Texas community heartbroken after 23-year-old college student Madison Riley was killed in a dog attack while pet-sitting three pit bulls. The fatal mauling occurred Friday afternoon in the backyard of a residential home in Tyler, where Riley was found unresponsive by responding deputies.

Authorities say the Smith County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call around 4:15 p.m. reporting the attack. By the time deputies arrived, the pit bulls had already turned on Riley. One of the dogs was shot and killed by a deputy after it began charging at law enforcement.

Deputies and Neighbors Witnessed the Aftermath

According to Sgt. Larry Christian with the Smith County Sheriff’s Office, the situation unfolded rapidly once deputies arrived. “The dogs then diverted their attention. All three of them came toward him, and he fired at one of the dogs, killing it,” Christian said.

Neighbors described the scene as chaotic, with law enforcement working to control the dogs while trying to reach Riley. The homeowners, whose dogs she had been caring for, were reportedly out of town at the time of the incident.

Family Devastated as They Seek Answers

Riley’s mother, Jennifer Hubbell, told local outlets that she was overwhelmed with grief upon learning what happened. “I just dropped to my knees,” she said after being notified of her daughter’s death.

Hubbell said Riley had mentioned a change in the dogs’ behavior shortly before the attack, but there was no indication that they would become violent. “She said that they hadn’t always been that way,” Hubbell explained, adding that her daughter had known the family and their dogs for months and had previously babysat their children.

“She thought it would be an okay situation,” Hubbell said.

An Aspiring Teacher Remembered for Her Kindness

Madison Riley was just six months away from earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Tyler, majoring in early childhood education. Her family said she had a passion for working with children, inspired by her younger brother, who has autism.

“Her K–3rd grade students adored her,” her mother said. “She had a gift for making every child feel safe, special, and loved. Madison’s heart was made for that work.”

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Riley’s family as they navigate the tragedy.

Legal Proceedings and Animal Control Actions

The Smith County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a court hearing regarding the two surviving pit bulls is scheduled for Wednesday, where officials will decide their fate. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities reviewing whether negligence or violations of animal control laws contributed to the attack.

Animal experts say sudden changes in canine behavior can sometimes stem from stress, environmental triggers, or dominance conflicts, but cases involving fatalities are rare — especially among dogs familiar with the victim.

Community Mourning a Life Cut Short

As the Tyler community grieves, Riley’s story has sparked renewed discussion about dog safety and responsibility. Friends and fellow students have shared memories of her warmth and dedication, describing her as someone whose “heart was made for helping others.”

“Our prayers and condolences go out to Madison Riley’s family and friends,” one community post read. “Her loss is felt deeply by everyone who knew her.”

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