DUNCANVILLE, TX – An unfortunate incident occurred at a Duncanville residence where a one-year-old boy was fatally attacked by three large dogs. The incident took place while the toddler was being babysat along with other children at the home.
The local law enforcement, the Duncanville Police Department, reported that they received a distress call from the residence where the toddler was being attacked by the dogs. Upon reaching the scene with paramedics, police found the toddler severely injured and unresponsive. Police officers immediately began lifesaving efforts until medical professionals arrived.
The child was taken to the Children’s Medical Center in Dallas. Despite the best efforts, the boy was pronounced dead shortly upon his arrival at the hospital.
Interim Police Chief Matthew Stogner expressed deep sorrow over the incident during a subsequent press conference. He shared that the homeowner was babysitting the victim, along with three other children, at the time of the tragic event. The three dogs implicated in the attack belonged to the homeowner.
Despite the dogs being confined, they somehow managed to enter the home and attack the boy. The babysitting woman reportedly intervened, sustaining injuries herself in the process.
David Trout, a relative of the homeowner, confirmed that the woman has a long history of babysitting without issues at her home for family members and neighbors. He called her a “sweetheart” who had never previously encountered any problems in caring for children.
Local animal control officials reached the scene and seized the three dogs, all German Shepherd mixes averaging around 80 pounds each, as part of their investigation. The police are examining whether the homeowner was operating a daycare out of the residence and whether any criminal charges are appropriate in relation to the child’s death.
As Interim Police Chief Stogner stated, they are working closely with the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office to examine all potential courses of action. The names of the child and babysitter remain undisclosed by authorities.