Police Say Dogs Killed 20-Year-Old Man

LEESBURG, Va. (WUSA) -- Authorities believe two American Pit Bull Terriers mauled a 20-year-old man to death in his own home.

The dogs were taken from the home and brought to Loudoun County Animal Control.

A family member went to check on 20-year-old Carter Delaney around 2 pm Monday. When the young man failed to come to the door, that person called police.

Chris Jones with Leesburg Police says Delaney's body was found In the basement. A small dog was also killed, and found next to Delaney's body.

Delaney's friends have posted their condolences on Facebook. One friend even wrote about the attack, claiming Delaney may have been trying to protect his mom's dog from the others.

Police say they do not know what caused the dogs to attack. According to Animal Control, it's unclear what will happen to the dogs until the investigation is over.

Police are also waiting for the results from an autopsy before finally determining the cause of death.