Quintana Roo Law Makes Dog Attack Deaths Homicide Against Owners

Quintana Roo — A new law in Quintana Roo now classifies fatal dog attacks as homicide against the owner, significantly increasing penalties for negligence. The reform, which took effect Saturday, replaces previous civil liability and administrative fines with criminal charges.

The amendments to the Quintana Roo Penal Code place animal attacks resulting in death under the homicide statute. Owners whose dogs kill someone now face up to 10 years in prison, as established in the newly added Article 87 bis. Penalties can be enhanced if the victim is vulnerable, such as a child or pregnant woman.

The law also introduces charges for serious injuries caused by dog attacks, with sentences depending on severity, also up to 10 years. Previously, such provisions did not exist.

The reform, known as Decree 217, was initiated by members of the Green Party and approved on April 8. Legislators emphasized the measure aims not to criminalize pet ownership, particularly of large dogs, but to penalize negligent owners who fail to take adequate precautions to prevent harm to others.

The push for stricter laws follows incidents like a 2025 attack in Playa del Carmen, where a young girl suffered severe facial injuries after being mauled by a large dog while playing in the street.