Four-year-old mauled to death by dog
Animal control euthanise animal as police investigate the attack
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A four-year-old girl was mauled to death by her family’s mixed-breed dog in the backyard of their Texas home.
The dog was euthanized on Saturday morning after Elyah Brown died from her injuries at Cook Children’s Medical Centre the night before, according to The Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Local news footage showed Fort Worth Animal Care and Control take custody of the animal before it was put down, but it remains unclear what breed of dog it was.
City of Fort Worth spokesperson Dianne Covey told the Star-Telegram she couldn’t name any dominant breed despite posts from the National Pit Bull Victim Awareness group claiming it was a pit bull mix.
“Really, it’s just a mixed-breed dog," Ms Covey told the outlet.
A GoFundMe page set up by the family has raised $10,380 for funeral and memorial service for Elayah, who they described as a "wonderful" daughter, niece and cousin.
"She was a bright, beautiful and inspiring person," the family wrote. "Elayah was 4 years old when her life was unfortunately cut short from an attack by dogs."
While no charges have been filed in connection with the death, Fort Worth Police said the crimes against children unit has been notified and will investigate.
"Anytime there is a loss of life, it’s a tragic incident," police chief Neil Noakes said in a statement.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and all first responders that responded to this call."