Madison Riley Hull died after a backyard attack while caring for the animals; two surviving dogs were ordered euthanized.
TYLER, TX — A 23-year-old University of Texas at Tyler student was killed Friday, Nov. 21, when three dogs mauled her in a backyard on the city’s southwest side, authorities said. Deputies found Madison Riley Hull gravely injured around 4:15 p.m. while she was pet-sitting at a home on Northwood Drive.
Hull’s death comes as the Smith County Sheriff’s Office reviews evidence and interviews to determine whether criminal charges are warranted. Investigators say the young woman, months from earning a degree in early childhood education, was caring for the dogs while the owners were away. One deputy fired on an animal that charged him, killing the dog and allowing responders to reach Hull, who died shortly afterward. The case has moved quickly from notification and identification to court rulings about the animals, with county officials signaling further updates as the investigation proceeds.
Deputies were dispatched after a call about an aggressive-dog incident. They entered the backyard and found Hull on the ground with severe injuries. As a deputy approached, one of the pit bulls rushed him, according to the sheriff’s office. The deputy shot that dog, and the two others fled long enough for first responders to remove Hull from the yard. A deputy sustained minor injuries and was treated at a hospital. “I am shattered in a way I didn’t know a human being could break,” Hull’s mother, Jennifer Hubbell, said in a public statement. She described her daughter as “full of love” and “free-spirited.”
Authorities identified Hull on Monday after notifying relatives. Officials said she was pet-sitting for the dogs’ owners and had been at the home when the attack occurred. The sheriff’s office said the incident remains under active investigation, including a review of prior complaints, the animals’ histories and vaccination records, and any conditions at the property that could have affected the dogs’ behavior. Investigators did not immediately release the owners’ names. The exact sequence of events in the minutes before the attack has not been disclosed. Records list the location as the 15000 block of Northwood Drive in south Tyler.
By Tuesday, county authorities had brought the two surviving dogs into custody. Justice of the Peace Andy Dunklin later ordered them euthanized after the owner waived the right to a hearing. Smith County Animal Control was directed to carry out the order. Officials said the ruling addresses the immediate public-safety risk from the dogs while the broader investigation continues. Deputies have not announced any arrests. The district attorney’s office is conferring with investigators on possible charges, a process that could take several days as reports are finalized.
Hull was six months from graduation at UT Tyler, where she studied early childhood education and worked with K–3 students during training placements. Her mother said the students “adored her” and that Hull “had a gift for making every child feel safe, special and loved.” Photos shared by the family show Hull with relatives and children she knew through school programs. Friends and neighbors left flowers near the home over the weekend. An online fundraiser organized by her mother drew thousands of dollars in donations for funeral and memorial costs.
Fatal dog attacks are uncommon in Tyler and Smith County, but local authorities have handled prior cases involving aggressive animals. Under Texas law, investigations typically examine whether owners failed to secure animals known to be dangerous, whether the property had adequate fencing, and whether anyone ignored prior warnings. County judges and justices of the peace can order dogs euthanized when evidence shows a continuing danger. Inquests are standard after violent deaths; an autopsy was ordered in Hull’s case to document injuries and timing.
The sheriff’s office said it is still collecting statements from witnesses, including any neighbors who heard or saw the commotion, and reviewing 911 recordings. Officials expect to analyze veterinary records and any prior service calls to the address. If prosecutors pursue a case, potential filings and court dates would be announced by the district attorney. County offices indicated additional public information could be released after the Thanksgiving holiday. No timeline for charging decisions has been set.
Neighbors described a heavy law enforcement presence on Northwood Drive after the attack, with patrol units, animal control trucks and crime scene personnel moving in and out of the cul-de-sac. “It was just sirens, and then everything got quiet,” said one nearby resident who asked not to be named. At the university, classmates posted tributes. “She lit up our classroom,” said a fellow education major, recalling Hull’s work with early readers. “She was excited to teach.” Hubbell wrote that community messages “carried me through moments when I didn’t think I could stand.”
As of Wednesday afternoon, the two surviving dogs remained under the euthanasia order while investigators continued their review. Officials said further updates on the criminal inquiry could come this week, with any charging decisions likely announced after reports are complete.
Author note: Last updated November 26, 2025.