JUST IN: 10-Year-Old Hospitalized After Dog Attack in Sabine County

SABINE COUNTY, Texas (TXAN 24) - A 10-year-old child is recovering in the hospital after being mauled by several dogs in the Bronson community of Sabine County on August 13, according to the Sabine County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies responding to the scene found the child in the backyard of a residence, bleeding heavily from both legs and other parts of the body. A deputy applied two tourniquets before first responders from the Pineland Volunteer Fire Department arrived to assist with life-saving aid.

While on scene, deputies heard gunfire nearby and discovered a man attempting to stop the dogs involved in the attack. The man, who was carrying a pistol and a dog collar, had run out of ammunition and requested deputies dispatch the remaining aggressive animal. Deputies secured multiple dogs from the property and collected samples for rabies testing.

The dogs’ owner was cited for failing to provide proof of vaccination for three animals. Investigators noted the dogs had a history of aggression and were often left outside unsupervised. Authorities say the child was attacked while playing in the backyard in what witnesses described as an unprovoked attack.

The victim was transported first to a hospital in Lufkin before being transferred to Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston. No further information on the child’s condition has been released. The sheriff’s office says the case remains under investigation and additional charges may be filed.