Child killed in dog attack in Onslow County

JACKSONVILLE, NC (WWAY) — An 8-year-old boy has died following a dog attack in Onslow County on Friday, the sheriff’s office confirmed in a news release.

Deputies responded to a 911 call just before 3 pm on November 29 on Harris Creek Road in Jacksonville, where the child had been attacked by dogs. Emergency Medical Services transported the boy to Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune. He died shortly after arriving at the hospital.

According to investigators, the attack occurred while the boy and a sibling were letting the family’s dogs out to use the bathroom. Family members said the dogs, described as a Pit Bull/Great Dane mix, had not previously shown aggressive behavior. Neither law enforcement nor Onslow County Animal Control had prior reports of issues involving the animals.

The dogs involved in the attack have been quarantined by animal control.

“This is an unimaginable tragedy for the family and our community. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this incredibly difficult time,” Sheriff Chris Thomas said in a statement.

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional details will be released as they become available.