North Carolina Woman Was Mauled to Death by a Stray Dog She Had Been Caring for Since May

Barbara Brewington, 38, a mother of three and dental assistant from Sampson County, North Carolina, died on November 23, 2025, after being mauled in her yard by a stray mixed-breed dog she had been caring for since May of that year. Deputies from the Sampson County Sheriff’s Office responded to her home on North Peavine Road near Bonnetsville that afternoon and found her suffering from severe injuries. She died at the scene. According to Sheriff Jimmy Thornton, Brewington’s own small dog had gotten loose outside, and she went out to intervene when the stray dog attacked it. She was able to get her smaller dog safely inside before succumbing to her injuries. She was reportedly home alone at the time.

The Dog

The stray dog had been part of Brewington’s life for months - she had been caring for it since the spring. Following the fatal attack, deputies euthanized the dog at the scene.

Remembering Barbara Brewington

Brewington’s family and community described her as a “ray of sunshine on a rainy day” whose greatest joy was her three children. Her sister created a GoFundMe page to support the children following her death. “She brought laughter and love into every room she entered,” her sister wrote. The outpouring of support for the family reflected the deep impact she had on those around her.

References: N.C. Woman Was Mauled to Death by Dog After Jumping In to Defend Her Own Pet | North Carolina woman mauled to death by dog while saving her own dog’s life: authorities | North Carolina woman mauled to death by dog while saving her own dog’s life