Beard “was attacked while trying to contact the dog’s owner,” the FCSO said. A 39-year-old woman has been charged with manslaughter in Beard’s death. She is believed to be the owner of the dogs and lived on the property, said Sheriff Shannon Oliver. The woman was released from FCSO detention on Monday, according to online records. Deputies were first called to the scene because of a suspicious vehicle on a road near Red Bay, Alabama, about 120 miles northwest of Birmingham. “Many dogs started attacking the residents when deputies were there and one person was slightly injured. Some of the dogs had to be euthanized immediately,” the statement said. Oliver said seven mixed breed dogs were killed and believed to be involved in the attacks. Deputies found Beard’s body outside her vehicle. “The Alabama Department of Public Health extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Summer Beard following her tragic death,” the office said in a statement. “Summer was known to her colleagues as a great person. She was a terrific team worker and was loved by those who knew her.” Beard worked for the health department for nearly 17 years, officials said.
