Craig Sytsma - killed by dogs in Michigan

Craig Sytsma

Craig Sytsma, age 46, of Livonia, Michigan, died on July 23, 2014, at a local hospital.

Craig had left work and decided to jog along a country road in Metamora Township in southern Lapeer County. Sometime around 5:30 p.m., he was attacked by two Cane Corso dogs who were running loose. The dogs severely mauled Craig.

Neighbors came to Craig's aid and shot at the dogs to scare them away. Craig was transported to a local hospital where sadly he died of his injuries.

Craig Sytsma worked for Eltro Services in Oxford, in Oakland County. He was a divorced father of three children. He lived alone. He had survived colon cancer in recent years.

Cane Corsos are a sub-species of mastiff. They have a huge head and jaws and the males can weigh 110 pounds. They are descendants of dogs bred by the ancient Roman Military as guard and attack dogs. They were called "Canis Pugnax" (Dogs of War). Later, they were used in Italy to hunt wild boar and for bear baiting. These dogs are popular with drug dealers for use at grow-operations as guard dogs. 

These dogs were never bred to be family pets. They are banned outright in numerous jurisdictions around the world and should be banned in the U.S.A.

The two particular dogs involved in Craig's death have a previous history of biting

Cane Corso dog

people. Biting incidents were reported to authorities in 2012 and 2013.

However, it seems that in Lapeer County dogs trump humans. Apparently dogs can run wild there and do what they want and everyone else can take their chances. However, local authorities believe that it would be in the best interests of the public to have these two dogs destroyed. No kidding?

Death by dog is not acceptable in a civilized country.

Craig's co-workers, friends and family members are devastated over his senseless and tragic death. He will be forever mourned.

Craig is survived by many loving friends and family members including his three children.

Pray that Craig is in heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.