Small toddler killed after being mauled by 3 dogs in Duncanville, police say

An investigation has been launched following a tragic incident in a Duncanville neighborhood, where a one-year-old boy was fatally mauled by three large dogs on Monday morning.

The Duncanville Police Department responded to a residence in the 1500 block of Lime Leaf Lane around 10:40 a.m. after receiving reports of a small child being attacked by a dog. Upon arrival, officers and paramedics found the toddler unresponsive with severe injuries and provided immediate medical attention until the child was rushed to the Children’s Medical Center in Dallas under emergency escort. Despite efforts to save his life, the child was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital.

Duncanville Interim Police Chief Matthew Stogner described the incident as a tragedy and praised the efforts of emergency responders who worked diligently to save the child’s life.

During a press conference, Chief Stogner confirmed that the homeowner was babysitting the one-year-old at the time of the attack, and there were three other children present in the home. Evidence indicated that all three dogs owned by the homeowner were involved in the attack, which occurred inside the home.

A witness, David Trout, recounted how the homeowner bravely intervened to stop the dogs from attacking the toddler, sustaining injuries in the process. Trout described the homeowner as a caring individual who has provided childcare for years without any prior issues.

Authorities disclosed that the dogs, described as German Shepherd mixes weighing approximately 80 pounds each, were taken into possession by Animal Control officials.

Investigators are now examining whether the homeowner was operating a daycare facility at the residence. The police department stated that criminal charges may be pursued in connection with the child’s death, pending further investigation and consultation with the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office and the family of the deceased.

The identity of the one-year-old child has not been released, and details regarding the relationship between the toddler and the babysitter have not been disclosed. NBC 5 attempted to speak with the homeowner about the incident, but they declined to comment.