A WOMAN mauled to death by a pack of dogs died from “multiple penetrating dog bites to the neck”, an inquest heard.
Natasha Johnston, 28, was walking the animals in Caterham, Surrey, when she was attacked on January 12.
3Natasha was mauled to death by a pack of dogs she was walkingCredit: AlamyAn inquest opening heard today how Natasha died from “multiple penetrating dog bites to the neck”.
Surrey Coroner’s Court was told she also suffered shock and haemorrhage including perforation of her jugular vein.
Her brother Jordan Johnston identified Croydon-based Natasha’s body after the horror attack.
Coroner Simon Wickens said: “A post-mortem examination was carried out at Royal Surrey County Hospital on 18 January.
“The medical cause of death (was) given as 1a) shock and haemorrhage including perforation of the left jugular vein, and in 1b) the pathologist places multiple penetrating dog bites to her neck.
“The reason for the inquest required is the nature of the traumatic injuries.”
A date of June 29 was set for a full inquest but is subject to change.
The coroner added: “I offer Natasha’s family and indeed all those touched by her life my sincere condolences.”
Police were scrambled to the scene in Gravelly Hill earlier this month after the horror unfolded.
Witnesses told “there was no barking, just screaming” as the dogs turned on Natasha “like a pack of small wolves”.
One local said she shouted at bystanders to “go back” when the dogs began attacking.
A woman was taken to hospital with non life-threatening bite injuries and has since been discharged.
The tragedy came after some residents claimed they saw Natasha struggling to control the animals just days before her death.
Officers seized a total of eight dogs, which are not banned breeds, at the beauty spot.
Among the pack was a Leonberger named Shiva that appeared in a 2017 BBC programme about bad puppy behaviour.
Surrey Police said a criminal probe has been closed and no prosecutions are being brought against any individuals.
The animals remain in police custody while forensic examinations continue.
Natasha’s family earlier this month shared their agony at their “sudden loss”.
A statement said: “This is an extremely difficult time for us.”
3Police were called to Gravelly Hill on January 12Credit: UkNewsinPictures
3Her family earlier this month shared their agony at their “sudden loss”Credit: Chris Eades
Story Credit: thesun.co.uk