Sumter County dog attack leaves Amazon driver critically injured

The case highlights legal duties of pet owners and risks faced by delivery drivers on private property.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 11:07pm

An extreme close-up photograph of a dog's sharp teeth and saliva-covered jaws, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.A recent wave of dog attacks on delivery drivers has exposed the legal risks and safety concerns for those working in the gig economy.Columbia Today

A Sumter County, South Carolina woman is in critical condition after being mauled by a Cane Corso-Pit Bull mix while delivering an Amazon package. The incident raises new questions about the rights and protections for delivery drivers stepping onto private property, as well as the legal responsibilities of homeowners to keep their premises safe for visitors.

Why it matters

Delivery driver safety has become an increasing concern, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic drove up demand for home deliveries. This attack highlights the legal obligations of pet owners to secure dangerous animals and the potential liability they face if their dogs cause injury, even if the dog has no prior history of attacks.

The details

According to the Sumter County Sheriff's Office, the victim was making an Amazon delivery on Claremont Road in Rembert when she was attacked by the dog, suffering serious injuries to her skull, leg, and face. Attorney Joshua Golson, who handles personal injury claims, explains that under South Carolina law, dog owners can be held strictly liable if their dog bites someone, even if the dog has never bitten before. Homeowners have a duty to keep their property safe for visitors like delivery drivers and to warn of any hazardous conditions, including securing dangerous animals.

  • The attack occurred on Tuesday morning, April 17, 2026.

The players

Joshua Golson

An attorney who handles personal injury claims and has experience with delivery driver injury cases.

Sumter County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to the dog attack and provided details about the incident.

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What they’re saying

“It's a duty to make sure their premises are safe, and that they've warned visitors, including delivery drivers, of hazardous conditions. They've also got an obligation to secure dogs, especially if they know those animals can be dangerous.”

— Joshua Golson, Personal Injury Attorney

“If a dog bites you, period, the owner is going to be liable for that dog bite.”

— Joshua Golson, Personal Injury Attorney

What’s next

The Sumter County Sheriff's Office is continuing to investigate the incident, and the victim's condition remains critical. Authorities will likely determine if the dog's owners will face any criminal charges or civil liability for the attack.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing risks delivery drivers face and the legal responsibilities of homeowners to ensure the safety of visitors on their property, especially when it comes to securing potentially dangerous animals. It underscores the need for stronger protections and clearer guidelines to address the unique challenges delivery workers encounter.