BAXLEY, Georgia — A quiet Georgia neighborhood is reeling after an 86-year-old grandmother, identified as Maria Nunez, was found dead following what police describe as a “vicious dog attack” allegedly carried out by two dogs owned by her neighbor.
The tragic incident occurred on Wednesday, October 8, around 12:00 p.m. local time, when Appling County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a home on Popular Lane in Baxley. Upon arrival, officers found Nunez deceased, having sustained multiple severe injuries consistent with a dog mauling.
According to the Appling County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO), investigators believe Nunez was attacked the previous day, before her body was discovered in her yard.
Dogs Belonged to Neighbor, Officials Say
In an update shared on Friday, October 10, Appling County Sheriff Mark Melton confirmed that 53-year-old Misty Branch, a neighbor of the victim, was arrested and charged with reckless conduct and involuntary manslaughter in connection with Nunez’s death.
Branch is believed to be the owner of the two dogs responsible for the fatal attack, authorities said.
“The investigation has revealed Ms. Nunez was viciously attacked by two dogs,” Sheriff Melton said in a public statement. “The canines have since been secured by our office.”
Appling County Chief Deputy Gene Davis told local outlet WTOC that security footage from the area played a crucial role in identifying the animals involved in the deadly incident. The dogs were located and taken into custody shortly after.
Authorities Cite Lack of Animal Control Resources
Deputy Davis acknowledged that the county faces an ongoing animal control problem, noting that the sheriff’s office is working with local officials to develop a more effective system for managing stray and aggressive animals.
“We do have a dog problem, just like every other county that does not have an animal control unit,” Davis said. “But we are working with the board of commissioners to rectify the situation.”
Residents in the Baxley area say this tragedy has sparked new discussions about the need for stronger leash laws, pet ownership accountability, and animal control services.
Victim Remembered as a Loving Mother and Grandmother
According to her obituary, Maria Nunez was born in Ahuijullo, Jalisco, Mexico, and had lived in Georgia for many years. She was known in the local community as a midwife and co-founder of the family business, Nunez Pine Straw.
Friends and family describe her as kind, hardworking, and deeply devoted to her family.
She is survived by three daughters, all of whom live in Baxley, along with nine grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren.
“She was a gentle soul who brought life into this world as a midwife, and she deserved so much better,” said a family friend in an online tribute.
Ongoing Investigation
The Appling County Sheriff’s Office and the Appling County Coroner’s Office continue to investigate the case, including whether the dogs had a history of aggression or if prior complaints had been made.
Authorities have urged anyone with additional information about the attack to contact the sheriff’s office at 912-367-8120.
The case has reignited statewide conversations about responsible dog ownership and the potential criminal liability of pet owners when their animals harm others.
While the community mourns, officials emphasize that they are reviewing local policies to ensure another tragedy like this never happens again.
“This is a heartbreaking and preventable loss,” Sheriff Melton said. “Our thoughts are with the Nunez family as we continue to seek justice on their behalf.”
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