RCMP to lay no charges in fatal dog attack of 13-year-old boy

The RCMP has concluded an eight-month investigation into the death of 13-year-old Drew Nickerson, announcing that no charges will be laid against the owner of the dogs involved. The investigation followed an incident on January 3 in Welshtown, Nova Scotia, where Nickerson was attacked by a Rottweiler and two cane corsos while riding his bicycle. He later died from his injuries in a Halifax hospital.

Authorities stated that after reviewing witness interviews, video footage, and evidence from the Nova Scotia Medical Examiner Service, there were insufficient grounds to lay charges. The three dogs involved in the attack were euthanized shortly after the incident.

The death of the boy prompted calls across the province to review and strengthen municipal dog by-laws. Staff Sgt. Jeff LeBlanc of the Shelburne RCMP expressed condolences, describing the event as a “heartbreaking incident” and noting that the department's thoughts are with the family and the community.