DUNCANVILLE, Texas – A tragic incident in Duncanville, Texas has left a 1-year-old boy dead after being viciously attacked by three dogs. The Duncanville Police Department announced the child’s death on Monday, April 15, revealing that the toddler sustained severe injuries during the attack. The identity of the toddler has not yet been released.
According to Duncanville Interim Police Chief Matthew Stogner, the attack occurred while the toddler was being looked after in a babysitting situation. Despite the dogs being confined to the outside of the property, they somehow gained access and entered the house where the incident took place.
Emergency responders were quick to arrive on the scene, receiving the call at around 10:40 a.m. on April 15. They immediately began life-saving procedures on the unconscious child before transporting him to Children’s Medical Center in Dallas. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, the boy was pronounced dead.
During a press conference, Chief Stogner described the dogs involved in the attack as a “[German] shepherd mix,” weighing approximately 80 lbs. He explained that the resident of the house tried unsuccessfully to separate the dogs from the child before authorities arrived, and as a result, sustained injuries herself.
Fortunately, three other children who were present in the home at the time of the attack were unharmed, along with one adult. Duncanville Animal Control successfully secured possession of the dogs following the incident. An ongoing investigation is being conducted with the possibility of filing criminal charges, according to authorities.
Chief Stogner expressed his condolences to the family, calling the incident a “tragedy.” He also emphasized the importance of responsible animal ownership and ensuring adult supervision when children are present. The loss of this young child serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the potential dangers pets can pose if not properly controlled.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of the toddler, and questions arise regarding the circumstances that led to this devastating attack.