The victim, Robert W. Echols, 53, lived on Lovejoy Lane in Alton, according to a statement from Madison County Coroner Nicholas P. Novacich.
ALTON, Ill. — A man died after being mauled by a dog in his Southern Illinois home Friday, officials said on Monday.
The victim, Robert W. Echols, 53, lived on Lovejoy Lane in Alton, according to a statement from Madison County Coroner Nicholas P. Novacich.
Echols’s brother was able to get out of their home, and, using his neighbor’s phone, he called 911.
Police got the call for help around 5 p.m., the statement said.
“Echols was pronounced deceased at 6:18 pm, January 10, 2025, by Madison County Coroner’s Office Investigator Kelsey Jones,” the statement said.
Preliminary findings from an autopsy exam said Echols’s injuries were consistent with animal bites, but a final cause of death won’t be issued until further into the investigation.
One of the pending factors in the investigation is a routine toxicology test, the statement said.
“The case remains under investigation by the Alton Police Department and the Madison County Coroner’s Office,” the statement said. “Funeral arrangements are being scheduled under the direction of Marks Mortuary Wood River, IL.”
More information may be forthcoming further into the investigation. This story will be updated with the latest information as it becomes available.