The owner of two dogs that seriously injured a 37-year-old man in Brisbane’s northern suburb of Chermside could face tougher penalties under Queensland law following an attack that has prompted an ongoing police investigation.

The incident occurred on 16 October 2026 in parkland near Kittyhawk Drive. Emergency services were called shortly after 6pm following reports that a man had been attacked by two dogs. The victim suffered serious injuries to his arms and was taken to hospital for medical treatment. Police subsequently captured both dogs as authorities began investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The case has prompted Brisbane City Council to reconsider how it handles the dogs and the legal action against their owner. An earlier order requiring the dogs to be destroyed was withdrawn on Wednesday, 21 October. Instead, the council issued a proposed dangerous-dog declaration, leaving the animals securely held while the legal process continues.

Under this process, the owner has two weeks to respond to the proposed declaration. The council must consider any submission before making a final decision about the dogs. A further appeal may be possible through the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

Council representatives said the seriousness of the attack meant that stronger penalties available under state legislation were more appropriate than those available under council by-laws. According to the published report, the maximum penalty under the relevant state law is $120,890 or two years’ imprisonment, compared with a maximum fine of $51,810 available to the council.

The proposed declaration does not itself establish criminal guilt, and the owner has not been charged in connection with the incident at the time of the report. Police inquiries remain ongoing, and authorities are working with the council to determine what further action may be appropriate.

Investigators are also examining whether the same dogs may have been involved in the death of another man whose body was discovered in bushland in the same area two days after the attack. Police have not established that connection, and it remains a matter under investigation.

The incident has renewed attention on responsible dog ownership, animal-control rules and the procedures authorities follow after serious attacks. Dangerous-dog declarations can impose strict requirements on owners, while destruction orders and criminal penalties must follow the applicable legal processes.

For residents, the case highlights the importance of reporting dangerous animal behaviour and following safety instructions issued by local authorities. People who witness an attack or encounter an animal behaving aggressively should keep a safe distance and contact emergency services when someone is in immediate danger.

The final outcome will depend on the council’s assessment, the owner’s response and the findings of the police investigation. Authorities have indicated that decisions concerning the dogs will take account of the legal process and the evidence gathered.