On April 15, 2024, an unspeakable tragedy occurred in Duncanville, Texas where a one-year-old boy, Shiraz Asirvadam, was fatally mauled by three dogs at his babysitter’s home.
The Duncanville Police Department reported that the homeowner (the babysitter) had four dogs. The three animals involved in the tragic event were a male dog of approximately 100 pounds and two female dogs, each about 80 pounds. Duncanville Animal Control identified the dogs as German Shepherd mixes.
The dogs had been secured in a designated area but managed to get inside the house, where they attacked the young boy. The homeowner intervened during the attack, attempting to separate the dogs from the child, which resulted in her also being injured.
The emergency response team rushed to the scene around 10:40 a.m., providing immediate life-saving efforts to the unresponsive toddler. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Children’s Medical Center in Dallas.
Following the attack, Duncanville Animal Control took the dogs into custody. The police explained that the dogs are now in quarantine, awaiting either surrender by the owner or a legal decision to classify them as “Dangerous Dogs.” Additionally, the investigation includes examining whether the homeowner was operating an unlicensed daycare facility. There were three other children in the home at the time. Texas Health and Human Services confirmed that the residence has no daycare license.
As the investigation progresses, Duncanville Police are considering potential criminal charges, collaborating with the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office and the victim’s family to determine the appropriate response. A recent statement from the police noted that they withhold further comments about charges out of respect for the victim’s family until consultations are complete.
Matthew Stogner, the interim Chief of Duncanville Police, emphasized the severity of the incident, noting the quick response of the officers who tried to save the young child’s life.
David Trout, whose brother was formerly married to the homeowner, described her as a kind-hearted individual who has long provided childcare for family and neighbors without prior incidents. “She’s a sweetheart. She means well. She’s taken care of kids down there forever without any problems,” Trout told the local media, expressing his sadness over the situation.
Community reactions have been of shock and mourning, with neighbors expressing deep sadness and concern over the presence of large dogs around small children. As the investigation unfolds, the Duncanville Police are collaborating with local authorities to determine the next steps, which may include changes in local regulations regarding pet ownership and daycare operations.
