The incident happened last week at a New Hope home belonging to a neighbor, where police say the dogs attacked the boy.
The child, Mark Alan Partain, 2, passed away on Friday following an attack by possibly three dogs, according to the Madison County Sheriff’s Office. Madison County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the tragic event.The boy wandered from his home to the neighbor’s and opened the gate, where two of the dogs were situated.
The neighbor, Ricky Clark, noticed the open gate and discovered the child unresponsive in front of a dog pen.
He described the distressing scene, stating that the child was motionless in front of the dog pen, with the gate left open. Ricky Clark shared these details with ABC 31.The dogs responsible, a Husky and a German Shepherd/Golden Retriever mix, had no history of aggression or harm, as per Clark.
Kayla Hughey Partain expressed her grief on Facebook, stating she doesn't hold anyone responsible for the tragic event.
She also expressed gratitude for the support received from well-wishers and the community.
“I’ve spoken with all of the police and investigators. There will be a full investigation but it looks as if this was just a very tragic accident with no one to be held at fault.”
Clark suggested that his dogs may have been trying to protect Mark from another dog in the area.
He mentioned a brown bulldog roaming the neighborhood, indicating it may have played a role in the tragic incident.
Clark's dogs have been temporarily taken by animal control but are expected to be returned to him soon.
Meanwhile, A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with the family’s financial needs. The community organized a fundraising page to support the family.
A photo of Mark from the GoFundMe page was shared.