A tragic incident unfolded in Newark, New Jersey, when a toddler was fatally attacked by a dog while under the supervision of a teenager. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening at a residence on Second Avenue. The family, deeply distressed by the incident, has requested privacy during this difficult time.
The young girl had reportedly strayed from her babysitter and came into contact with one of the four dogs in the house, a pit bull. Following the attack, the child was rushed to University Hospital with severe injuries. The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office later confirmed that the child succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead around 7 p.m.
The four dogs from the residence were subsequently removed and placed under quarantine by Newark Animal Control. Authorities are currently investigating whether the attack was carried out by the single pit bull or if the other dogs were also involved.
Chief Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Fennelly stated that the investigation is ongoing. The official cause and manner of death will be determined following an autopsy. The family, still grappling with the tragic incident, has reiterated their request for privacy.
A neighbor, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed their concern to local media. They described the scene as chaotic, with a significant police presence that left them feeling worried and helpless.
Footage of the residence was later shared on a news report by WABC-TV on YouTube. The incident has sparked a conversation about the safety of certain dog breeds. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, pit bulls are responsible for more dog bites in the U.S. than any other breed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also reports that pit bulls account for more fatal dog attacks than any other breed.