MOLALLA, Ore. -- A man rescued a stranger from what he described as a vicious attack by two dogs on Christmas morning.

After hearing loud cries the man said he went out to see what was going on and saw two pit bulls tearing at another man, leaving him with serious injuries.

Charles Monnier's wife said when she heard the screams, she told her husband not to go outside, but that didn't stop him.

Monnier said he'll never forget the painful screams he heard for help.

Early Thursday morning, Chris Friesen was walking down Francis Street trying to get home after spending Christmas Eve at a friend's house, police said.

Friesen told his mom he'd be back early Christmas morning to open presents, but he never made it.

Monnier said when he heard the screams, he grabbed a shovel and went to help while his wife called 911.

"I could see in the darkness, I could see the dogs, both dogs attacking him. One from one end, the other from the other end," Monnier said. "Someone needed me. Someone had to help this man. I mean, I wasn't about to leave someone out there and let them be attacked by dogs."

Police said doctors believed a smaller person could have been killed by the attack.

The dogs left, but not before one of them charged at Monnier.

View Photos Of The Dogs

He said other neighbors heard the loud cries for help and came out with blankets to keep Friesen warm.

Friesen's mom said he was home Thursday night, but had several deep wounds.

Police said they found the two dogs on Friday in an old building foundation and took them into custody.

Officers said the dogs were inside the walls of the foundation, which were too high for the dogs to jump over, although they tried to get out for nearly two hours before police arrived.

Police said they think they've identified the owner of the dogs but since the investigation is ongoing they asked anyone who recognizes the dogs to call the Molalla Police Department.

Man Rescued From 'Vicious' Dog Attack