Arrest Made in Fatal Bolivar Dog Attack

A dog owner was arrested after her dogs were deemed responsible for the death of Theresa Rhodes, following the early morning attack on Monday, July 1, 2024.

The dogs’ owner, Antoinette Pirtle, was arrested on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, and charged with Dogs Not Allowed at Large (Resulting in Death). She was booked into the Hardeman County Criminal Justice Complex and later released on a $5,000 bond.

At approximately 1:34 a.m. on Monday, July 1, 2024, Bolivar Police officers responded to a distress call in the vicinity of Sycamore and Mitchell Streets regarding a female victim, later identified as Theresa Rhodes, found bleeding in the roadway. Upon arrival, officers discovered Ms. Rhodes in critical condition with extensive injuries sustained from a dog attack. Two dogs were observed in the area at the time of the incident.

In response to the immediate threat to Ms. Rhodes and to safely assess and administer first aid to the victim, an officer discharged his firearm injuring one of the dogs. Subsequently, both dogs fled the scene.

Officers provided initial medical assistance to Ms. Rhodes until emergency medical services (EMS) arrived at the scene. Ms. Rhodes was transported to Bolivar General Hospital for further medical treatment. Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of medical personnel, Ms. Rhodes succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased at the hospital.

Both of the dogs have since been located and euthanized.

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