Rebecca Westergaard Rigney dies in fatal Pataskala pig attack
Fatal Pataskala pig attack death of Rebecca Westergaard Rigney – Obituary
Investigators believe that pigs from a neighboring property may have played a role in the death of 75-year-old Rebecca Westergaard Rigney, whose body was found on her porch in Pataskala, Ohio, on Christmas Day.
Officers were called to conduct a welfare check on Rigney after she failed to attend a holiday gathering on December 25.
Upon arriving at her home, the officer discovered Rigney deceased on the front porch, suffering injuries to her legs. While securing the scene, a large pig was seen entering the area, which was later confirmed to belong to Rigney’s neighbor.
Authorities believe the pig may have contributed to the injuries sustained by Rigney, and upon further investigation, found at least two pigs at the neighbor’s residence. The pigs were subsequently quarantined.
The Licking County Coroner’s Office determined that Rigney died from bleeding caused by extensive superficial injuries inflicted by livestock. Rigney’s existing health issues were also noted, and her death was officially ruled accidental.
Local residents were left in disbelief by the tragic incident. Neighbors like David Mullings and David Hanson expressed shock, noting that such an event was unexpected in their quiet community.
The coroner’s office is expected to release a full report on Rigney’s death within six weeks, as authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding her passing.
