A death investigation is underway in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, after a 2-year-old child was fatally attacked by two dogs inside the family’s own home, authorities confirmed.
Officers from the Rocky Mount Police Department responded to a residential address Monday afternoon following a report of a seriously injured child. When they arrived, they found the toddler suffering from severe injuries consistent with a dog attack.
Emergency responders immediately began life-saving efforts at the scene before transporting the child to the hospital. Despite those efforts, the child did not survive.
According to investigators, the two dogs responsible for the attack were both pit bull mix breeds — and they belonged to the family. The animals have since been seized and turned over to Rocky Mount Animal Services as the investigation continues.
Authorities have not released the identity of the family at this time. It remains unclear whether any adults were present in the home at the time of the attack, or what led the dogs to turn on the child.
Dog attacks involving family pets are among the most devastating because they often come without warning, according to safety experts. Pit bull mix breeds, while often raised as household pets, have been linked to a disproportionate number of fatal attacks involving young children nationwide.
Rocky Mount police say the investigation is ongoing. No charges have been announced. Residents with information related to the incident are encouraged to contact Rocky Mount Police Department directly.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
