Somerset Woman Killed By Family Dog While Having A Seizure

A Somerset woman was killed by her family dog while having a seizure Friday evening, according to the Bristol County District Attorney's Office.

Melissa Astacio, 44, was having a seizure inside her home at 229 Lees River Avenue when the dog began to attack her, Bristol County District Attorney Thomas Quinn's office said in a statement. Astacio's daughter called Somerset police for help around 5:20 when the attack occurred.

"When police and paramedics arrived on scene, police were forced to deploy a Taser on the dog before being able to assist the victim, who was then rushed to Rhode Island Hospital," the statement said.

Astacio was known by family and friends to suffer from seizures. She was pronounced dead at the hospital around 6:20 p.m., the DA's office said.

Swansea Animal Rescue secured the dog, who is believed to be an 8-year-old pit bull, and has been placed in quarantine at their facility.

No foul play or criminal conduct is suspected, and the incident is under investigation, the DA's office said.