Two charged in deadly dog attack

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- A woman was fatally mauled by two dogs just after the start of the year, and now two people are facing felony charges in the attack.

Timothy Dewayne Coleman and Tiara Deshawn Thomas have both been charged with dog attack after two pit bull dogs killed Christina Bell on January 5 of this year. Witnesses say the dogs attacked Bell in the 7600 block of Glen Prairie. Houston Police investigators say at least one of the pit bull dogs belonged to Coleman and Thomas.

"Many people believe their dog is a loving member of their family and will not bite, but given the right situation most dogs can attack. You must be a responsible pet owner," said Harris County District Attorney Devon Anderson.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 4.5 million Americans are bitten by dogs each year and nearly 900,000 require medical attention. In 2012, more than 2700 people underwent reconstructive surgery as a result of being bitten by dogs.

"Sadly, Christina Bell's life could not be saved, but we haven't forgotten her and we are seeking justice in this horrible case," said DA Anderson.

On the street where Bell died, her friends take some comfort in Tuesday's arrests.

"They should do the same to them as Michael Vick, except their dogs killed her," neighbor Lacole White said.

If convicted, Coleman and Thomas could each face 2 to 20 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine. Both are in custody.