A Georgia woman was arrested in connection with the death of an 86-year-old grandmother who was mauled by dogs in her yard.
Appling County Sheriff Mark Melton announced Friday that 53-year-old Misty Ann Branch of Baxley was arrested in connection with the death of Maria D. Nunez, who was “viciously attacked by two dogs in her yard.” Branch faces charges of reckless conduct and involuntary manslaughter.
Nunez was found dead on Wednesday at around noon at her residence, also in Baxley, after sustaining “multiple injuries,” Melton said.
Her body was transported to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s crime lab for autopsy.
The sheriff’s office and the Appling County coroner are leading the investigation.
The Appling County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to NBC News’ request for comment.
A Mexico native, Nunez was a midwife and a co-founder of her family business, Nunez Pine Straw, according to her obituary. She was also a devoted member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.
Nunez is survived by her three daughters — all of whom live in Baxley — as well as three brothers, nine grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
Kate Reilly
Kate Reilly is a news associate with NBC News.