Trail Turns into Crime Scene After Off-Leash Dog Argument

Man Attacked Over Off-Leash Dogs Sparks Pasadena Police Investigation

Authorities in Pasadena are investigating a disturbing incident after a man reported being violently assaulted during a dispute over his off-leash dogs.

William Woods said he was walking along Arroyo Boulevard with his two dogs, Woof and Kibble, when a man with two young girls confronted him about the dogs not being on leashes. Woods claims he acknowledged the man’s concerns, but the encounter escalated.

“This guy starts yelling at me about how you gotta have your dog on a leash, it’s illegal not to, and I said thank you,” Woods told Eyewitness News. “Frankly, some f-bombs were tossed… Then he charged me. He picked me up and threw me.”

After being knocked to the ground, Woods says he got up and tried to take photos of the man, but was attacked a second time. His glasses were thrown 40 feet away in the struggle, leaving him nearly blind and bloodied. Photos taken afterward show injuries to his leg and arm.

Woods immediately reported the assault to Pasadena police. While he admits he was in violation of the leash law, he emphasized that it didn’t justify violence.

“If I ever get a ticket, I will pay it,” he said. “But nothing excuses being physically attacked.”

Pasadena city spokesperson Lisa Derderian confirmed that dogs are required to be on leash in the area but stressed that the rule should never lead to violence. She urged anyone with information to contact police, as the suspect has not yet been identified.

Neighbors expressed shock over the incident, calling the assault frightening and unprovoked. Woods’ wife has also been left shaken, while Woods himself fears the attacker could return.

For now, police continue their investigation, hoping witnesses or community members can provide information to bring accountability in a case that highlights how quickly a routine walk can turn into a violent confrontation.