A 4-year-old California girl died after being attacked by her family’s dog, according to police.
Visalia police responded to the home on September 4 around 8 p.m. after Zoey Hawkins was attacked by the family’s pit bull. She had just finished swimming in a “kiddie pool” when the attack happened, according to what family members told Fox 26.
“He literally just went to the sliding door right there just to go get her towel really quick, and by the time that he looked to get her towel, and by the time he looked back. That’s when the dog already had got her,” her cousin, Pearl Vargas, said.
ABC 30 reports that Zoey was rushed to the hospital, but subsequently passed away. The family euthanized the dog following the attack.
“She’s been around this dog for two-plus years,” Vargas added. “Her and the dog would always play with each other. They would always be around each other. So we have no clue on what the reason was or why the dog even did this in the 1st place.”
Police are currently investigating but said they found no indications of foul play.
Meanwhile, the family set up a GoFundMe fundraiser to help with funeral expenses.
The story is developing. Check back for updates.
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[Feature Photo: Zoey Hawkins/GFM]