An Oklahoma boy is dead after his pet dog mauled him to death as he played in his family’s backyard.
According to the Creek County Sheriff’s Office, police received a call last Wednesday at around 7:20 p.m. about a missing child. Before the deputies arrived at the scene, 7-year-old James McNeelis’ father found him on the family property, south of Kiefer. He was unresponsive after the dog reportedly attacked him.
“Shortly after deputies arrived on scene, a family member located the child on the property,” a statement from the Creek County Sheriff’s Office read. “The child was pronounced deceased at approximately 7:35 p.m. The preliminary investigation indicates the child was attacked by a family pet (dog).
The boy’s family told 2 News Oklahoma that the dog, a sheltie-corgi mix, had only been at their home for three weeks after they found it as a stray. The family said the dog had never shown aggression before.
The dog is currently being held at an animal control facility. It’s unclear if officials will order a euthanization.
Family members called James a “sweet and loving” boy.
The investigation continues. Check back for updates.
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[Featured Photo: Handout]
