Jodi Cowan’s partner said two dogs from a nearby home attacked her after 1 a.m. Tuesday.
BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — Authorities are investigating a deadly dog attack that killed Jodi Cowan, 50, early Tuesday on Blue Bonnet Drive near Cocoa, after her partner said two neighbor dogs mauled her outside their home.
The Brevard County Sheriff’s Office confirmed an active investigation into the attack. Cowan’s partner, Donnell Smith, said she was taken by helicopter to a hospital and died hours later. The case has drawn concern from nearby residents after Smith said the dogs had been reported before for getting loose and acting aggressively.
Smith said the night began when he went across the street to help neighbors. When he came back shortly after 1 a.m., Cowan and one of their dogs were gone. He said he heard a weak call for help and then saw two dogs pulling Cowan along the road. “I saw the silhouette of the two dogs dragging my wife down the road,” Smith said.
Smith said he reached Cowan in the grass and found her badly injured. He said the dogs returned as he tried to stop her bleeding. He used a knife to keep them back while holding pressure on her wounds, he said. Emergency crews responded after he called 911. Cowan was flown to a hospital, but Smith said she died from her injuries later that day.
Smith said the two dogs belonged to a neighbor and were familiar to the couple. Before the attack, he said, Cowan had helped one of the dogs when its collar got stuck in their fence. Smith said he believes the dogs may have chased the couple’s small dog before attacking Cowan. Investigators have not publicly confirmed that account or released a final timeline.
The sheriff’s office has not said whether the dogs were removed, whether the owner could face charges or whether earlier complaints were documented. Smith said he had warned authorities that the dogs got out often and had been aggressive toward people in the neighborhood. The sheriff’s office said more information would be released as the investigation develops.
Cowan’s death left neighbors grieving and uneasy. A family friend remembered her as friendly and warm. A nearby resident said the attack has changed how people feel walking outside at night. Smith said Cowan loved dogs and people, making the way she died especially painful for those who knew her.
The investigation remained open Thursday. Authorities had not announced charges or a hearing date, and key questions about the dogs’ history, custody and owner remain unanswered.
Author note: Last updated May 21, 2026.