A 26-year-old mother was killed last Friday after stepping between her 5-year-old son and three adult dogs that attacked her at her mother's home in the Big River area of San Bernardino County. The boy was rushed to a nearby hospital with severe bite wounds as emergency crews and deputies swarmed the quiet desert neighborhood. Now the family is grieving a sudden, violent loss while investigators work to sort out exactly how a routine visit turned deadly.
How the attack unfolded
Investigators with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department's Colorado River Station said the woman, identified as Emily Panuco of Parker, Arizona, and her son were visiting the property when the boy walked up to a cardboard box holding several-week-old puppies. That is when three adult dogs went after him, according to FOX 11 Los Angeles. Deputies said Panuco moved to shield her son and was bitten multiple times. She was pronounced dead at the scene, while the child was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The sheriff's station listed the location of the attack as the 6700 block of Wingfoot Court in Big River.
Dogs euthanized, and an inquiry is underway.
According to Patch, the three adult dogs included the mother of the puppies and were later euthanized by Colorado River Indian Tribes Animal Control. Patch also reported that the 5-year-old was released from the hospital after receiving treatment for his injuries. The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Coroner's Division has taken over the death investigation, which officials say remains ongoing. Authorities have not said whether any criminal charges are being considered.
Why children are especially vulnerable
Fatal dog attacks are rare, but dog bites are a familiar sight in emergency rooms, particularly when kids are involved. A study published in Injury that reviewed U.S. emergency-department data from 2001–2017 found that children, especially those about 5–9 years old, account for a large share of nonfatal dog-bite injuries. Often, the dogs are ones the children already know.
What authorities are asking
Investigators have asked anyone with information to contact Deputy R. Flores at the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Colorado River Station at (760) 326-9200, or to call the WeTip hotline to remain anonymous, according to FOX 11 Los Angeles. Officials say they expect to release more details as the investigation moves forward and as the coroner's office completes its work.
Safety steps for families
Health and child-safety experts stress that very young children should never be left alone with dogs, no matter how familiar the animal may seem. Caregivers are urged to closely supervise any interaction between kids and dogs, especially around litters or nursing mothers, when animals can be more protective and unpredictable. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends simple precautions to cut the risk of bites: teach children to ask permission before petting a dog, avoid approaching a dog that is sleeping or eating, and leave dogs alone when they are caring for puppies. Experts say those everyday habits can make a critical difference in preventing tragedies like this one.
