SALEM — The Salem Police Department is seeking assistance from the public in its investigation into an alleged dog attack.

According to a statement posted to its Facebook page Wednesday, two large “pit-bull-type dogs” broke through the front door of a residence located on East Sixth Street between Ellsworth Avenue and West School Street “between approximately 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.” and attacked a small dog belonging to a city resident.

The dog, which was being taken out for a walk, sustained severe injuries and according to a police report “after the possible owner of the dogs pulled them off of the smaller dog,” it was “rushed to the veterinary hospital, where it succumbed to its injuries.”

The department is requesting “any residents in the area between East Fourth Street and East Seventh Street” who may have witnessed or heard anything related to the alleged attack, have any information regarding two large pit bull-type dogs that may have been loose during the time, or who are aware of any residence where dogs may have escaped or been involved in an altercation to contact the department at 330-337-7811.

“Your assistance is appreciated in helping us gather accurate information regarding this incident,” read the statement.

mahart@mojonews.com