Baby Killed by Family Dog While Mother Celebrates Birthday A 5-month-old infant died Wednesday evening after being attacked by a 60kg dog at a residence near Ormond Beach, according to police.
The baby, identified as Carter, was left in the care of his great-grandmother and great aunt while his parents attended his mother’s 21st birthday dinner.
After the infant became fussy, the family members placed him in a bedroom and shut the door.
Meanwhile, the great aunt released three dogs from their kennels, including a Great Dane/Husky mix that opened the bedroom door and attacked Carter.
When the great aunt discovered the infant, he was bleeding and unresponsive, with the dog beside him.
Carter’s parents rushed him to the hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries.
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood described the incident as “so, so, so tragic” and emphasized the devastating impact on the family.
Volusia County Animal Services took custody of the dog, which was classified as “dangerous” and euthanized on Thursday after the family chose not to appeal the decision.
Authorities reported no prior incidents at the residence, and the director of public protection, Randa Matusiak, stressed the importance of being aware of dog behavior and properly socializing pets.
As the investigation continues, Sheriff Chitwood urged community members to be compassionate towards the family.
A yard sign at the residence, which included a dog skeleton in Hawaiian shirts, ironically warned of “crazy dogs” living there.