A heroic act of bravery turned tragic when Colin Amatto, a 40-year-old man, intervened to save a woman and child from a vicious dog attack in the western Sydney suburb of Tregear on January 24, 2019. The Yuin man’s courageous intervention led to the dogs turning on him with extreme ferocity, resulting in a harrowing mauling that ultimately claimed his life.
According to accounts presented at the inquest, Colin rushed to assist the woman and child who had been bitten by the two dogs inside a residence. His intervention, though noble, provoked the dogs to savagely attack him instead. Described as having pitbull characteristics but identified as staffordshire bull terriers by an expert, these dogs inflicted over 80 wounds on Colin’s head, body, and limbs.
Despite his valiant efforts and the swift response of paramedics who resuscitated him and rushed him to Westmead Hospital, Colin never regained consciousness. After undergoing multiple surgeries, his family faced the heartbreaking decision to withdraw life support five weeks later.
The tragic circumstances of Colin’s death underscored the profound impact it had on his family and community. His selfless act not only saved the woman and child from further harm but also highlighted the dangers posed by aggressive dogs.
The inquest further revealed disturbing details about the dogs involved in the attack. Colin had lived with them for months before the incident, and while there were no prior alarming behaviors, one of the dogs had a history of aggression. Two years earlier, it had launched a ferocious attack on a real estate agent, causing serious injuries. Despite this incident, no significant action was taken by authorities, allowing the dog to remain with its owner.
Deputy State Coroner Carmel Foster presided over the inquest, which aimed to examine the response of local councils to fatal dog attacks in order to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Colin’s family, before the proceedings began, participated in a traditional smoking ceremony to cleanse the area, honoring their loved one’s memory.
As the inquest continued, it became evident that Colin’s untimely death served as a stark reminder of the need for stricter regulations regarding dangerous dogs and more proactive measures to ensure public safety. His sacrifice, though tragic, will not be forgotten, and efforts to prevent such incidents will undoubtedly continue in his honor.