Thirteen-year-old Drew Nickerson of Welshtown, Nova Scotia, died after being mauled by two Cane Corsos and a Rottweiler on Jan. 3 while riding his bike past the dogs' property. He was taken to a local hospital and then airlifted to Halifax, where he died two days later. The RCMP say video appears to show the dogs running into the road; investigators are looking into the circumstances and whether restraint systems were in place. The animals were euthanized, a GoFundMe has raised substantial support for his family, and a celebration of life is scheduled for Jan. 11.
13-Year-Old Drew Nickerson Dies After Mauling by Two Cane Corsos and a Rottweiler in Nova Scotia
gofundmeDrew Nickerson and his mom, Dawn Nickerson
A 13-year-old boy, Drew Nickerson of Welshtown, Nova Scotia, died after being attacked by three large-breed dogs while riding his bicycle past the property where the animals lived.
On Jan. 3, Shelburne District RCMP responded to the 100 block of Upper Sandy Cove Road after a report that a youth had been mauled by dogs. According to the RCMP, one of the dog owners transported Drew to a local hospital because of the severity of his injuries; he was then airlifted to a Halifax trauma centre. Drew died two days later from his injuries.
Animals, Investigation and Community Response
Local reports and multiple outlets indicate the dogs involved were two Cane Corsos and a Rottweiler. Staff Sgt. Mark Macpherson, detachment commander for Shelburne District RCMP, said video from a nearby residence appears to show the dogs running into the roadway as Drew rode past the property. Investigators are collecting facts and examining whether restraint systems were in place; the RCMP said it cannot yet comment on all details while inquiries continue.
The RCMP also said there were no prior complaints on record with police or animal control about the dogs. A veterinarian has since euthanized the three animals, according to local reporting.
HuskilsonDrew Nickerson
“We have lost the kindest young soul,” said relative Shawna Nickerson in a statement reported by The Globe and Mail. She asked for prayers and support for Drew’s mother, Dawn, and father, Tyler, as the family grieves.
Family, Friends and Fundraiser
A GoFundMe page started by family friend Trish Harris describes Drew as an outdoors-loving teen who enjoyed horses, truck racing, four-wheelers, biking and time at the family cottage on Goose Lake. The fundraiser had raised nearly $150,000 toward a $180,000 goal to support Drew’s mother.
Southwest Blast FC, the soccer club for which Drew played, posted a tribute noting his passion for the sport, the friendships he formed, and the bright, kind personality he brought to every space. An obituary describes him as an "outdoor kid" who loved biking, skate parks, swimming, ATV riding, and animals — including his family dog, Zig.
A public celebration of life is scheduled for Jan. 11 at the Shelburne Community Centre Auditorium, with burial arrangements to follow at a later date.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of the attack as the community mourns the loss of a young life.
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