Man mauled to death by 3 dogs in Oakland; dogs’ owner arrested on felony charges
Horrific Attack Shocks Community
On September 1, 2024, a tragic incident unfolded in Oakland’s Fruitvale District. Just before noon, in the 1600 block of 36th Avenue, three large dogs attacked Robert Holguin, a 53-year-old homeless man.
The dogs, each weighing approximately 100 pounds, were mixed breeds of Cane Corso and Neapolitan Mastiff.
They broke through a fence at their owner’s property, dragging Holguin into a backyard.
Witnesses described a harrowing scene. Holguin attempted to escape by hiding under a vehicle.
The dogs continued their assault, biting his legs, arms, and head. A bystander intervened, using a pipe to beat the dogs and stop the attack.
Despite these efforts, Holguin was pronounced dead at the scene due to multiple dog bites.
The incident has left the East Oakland community in shock. It marks a rare fatal dog mauling in the city, with no similar incidents reported in decades.
Victim’s Tragic Background
Robert Holguin was a familiar figure in the Fruitvale District. At 53, he lived out of his car, grappling with mental illness and a history of drug addiction.
He had served time for drug-related offenses but was known as a street preacher, sharing messages of faith.
His brother, Alex Holguin, who lives out of state, spoke of his brother’s struggles and resilience.
“Imagine hearing how your loved one was attacked by a dog. It’s horrible,” Alex Holguin told KTVU.
“We don’t know you. We are merciful. We are forgiving. We are Christian.” The family is planning a memorial service next month to honor Robert’s memory.
I've learned Brendan Burke, 57, arrested by @oaklandpoliceca, charged by @AlamedaCountyDA w/failing to control dogs that fatally mauled a man underneath car on 36th Ave. near E. 16th St. @oaklandsanimals services had been to suspect's home previously pic.twitter.com/wW6fyGgLpi
— Henry K. Lee (@henrykleeKTVU) September 4, 2024
Dogs Identified as Mastiff Breeds
The dogs involved were mixed breeds of Cane Corso and Neapolitan Mastiff, known for their size and protective instincts.
Each dog weighed around 100 pounds, described by some as “war dogs” rather than pets, bred for ferocity.
The dogs had a history of discipline issues and did not respond to commands.
Records indicate prior incidents. In October 2023, one of the dogs, named Sicily II, lunged at a smaller dog, but no enforcement action was taken as the other owner declined to pursue the matter.
The day before the fatal attack, the dogs had escaped Burke’s yard, prompting a visit from animal control officers.
Burke attempted to secure the yard with a dog fence and cinder blocks, but these measures failed.
Following the attack, the three dogs involved were euthanized.
Two other adult dogs and a puppy from Burke’s property were taken by Oakland Animal Services for a 10-day rabies observation period.
Owner Brendan Burke Faces Felony Charges
Brendan Thomas Burke, 57, the dogs’ owner, faces a felony charge for failing to control animals that killed a human.
Burke, a homeowner in the area, owned six dogs in total, possibly for breeding purposes.
He was arrested and initially held at Santa Rita Jail but was later released on his own recognizance.
His next court date is set for September 12, 2024, before Judge Elena Condes.
“You’re now serving, being held accountable like anybody should be that breaks the rules,” Alex Holguin said, addressing Burke’s arrest.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | September 1, 2024 |
| Location | 1600 block of 36th Avenue, Fruitvale District, Oakland |
| Victim | Robert Holguin, 53, homeless, street preacher |
| Dogs Involved | Three Cane Corso/Neapolitan Mastiff mixes, each ~100 pounds |
| Owner | Brendan Thomas Burke, 57, charged with felony |
| Charges | Failing to control animals killing a human |
| Previous Incidents | Dogs escaped day prior; Sicily II lunged at dog in October 2023 |
| Outcome | Three dogs euthanized; two dogs, one puppy in rabies observation |
| Court Date | September 12, 2024 |
| Community Impact | Fear among neighbors; calls for stricter regulations |
Community in Shock, Safety Concerns Rise
The attack has heightened safety concerns in the Fruitvale District.
Neighbors expressed fear, with one resident, speaking anonymously, stating she avoids walking past Burke’s home.
“I’m scared for my safety,” she told KTVU, speaking in Cantonese.
Four days after the attack, on September 5, 2024, a loose dog was spotted on Burke’s property, further alarming the community.
The incident has drawn comparisons to a 2001 fatal dog mauling in San Francisco, where a woman was killed by Presa Canario dogs.
That case led to a second-degree murder conviction for the dogs’ owner.
Legal and Safety Implications
Oakland’s dog ownership laws limit households to three dogs over four months old, all of which must be vaccinated and licensed.
The incident has sparked calls for stricter enforcement. Animal control had visited Burke’s property the day before the attack, but the measures taken were insufficient.
This tragedy underscores the dangers of owning large, powerful breeds like Cane Corso and Neapolitan Mastiff.
These dogs require experienced handlers, proper training, and secure containment.
The incident has prompted discussions about whether current regulations are adequate to ensure public safety.
Background on the Breeds
Cane Corso and Neapolitan Mastiff breeds are known for their strength and protective nature.
Often used as guard dogs, they can weigh over 100 pounds and require rigorous training and socialization.
Their popularity has grown, but so have concerns about their potential for aggression if not properly managed.
Experts note that responsible ownership is critical. This includes secure fencing, regular training, and adherence to local laws.
Burke’s failure to control his dogs highlights the consequences of neglecting these responsibilities.
Preventing Future Incidents
Authorities are urging residents to comply with dog ownership regulations.
Oakland Animal Services continues to monitor the situation, with the remaining dogs from Burke’s property under observation.
Community leaders are advocating for increased awareness and education about responsible pet ownership.
The tragedy has left a lasting impact on the Fruitvale District.
As the community mourns Robert Holguin, there is a collective call for action to prevent such incidents in the future.
