Atlanta First Responders Throw Party For Girl Attacked By Dogs

ATLANTA, GA -- A little girl who survived being mauled by pit bulls was feted recently by Atlanta's first responders in a welcome home party at a recreation center. Syrai Sanders, 5, is still on the mend but came home recently after being hospitalized for several weeks following the incident. For more updates on this and other stories in Atlanta, click here to get Patch's daily newsletter and free, real-time news alerts.

On January 17, Syrai and other schoolchildren were walking to school in southwest Atlanta when three dogs jumped out, mauling them. Neighbors were able to get the dogs off some of the children, but Syrai and two other children were overwhelmed. Six-year-old Logan Braatz succumbed to injuries suffered in the vicious attack, which received national attention and angered the community around Jasper and Gideon streets in Atlanta, where the incident occurred.

Syrai was scalped in the attack and was hospitalized in critical condition. Over a two-month period, she underwent eight surgeries and rehab to try to recover.

Cameron Tucker, the owner of the dogs, was arrested and initially charged with misdemeanor reckless conduct, but when Logan died, the charges were upgraded to felony involuntary manslaughter. After a hearing in February, a Fulton County judge reduced the sentence to misdemeanor manslaughter.

"[The judge] paid attention to the evidence that was presented today and she was very fair in her ruling," defense attorney Danielle Roberts told TV cameras at the time.

At Rosel Fann Recreation Center in southeast Atlanta last week, members of the Atlanta Police Department, Fire Rescue and the city's Parks and Recreation Department gave Syria a welcome home party. The celebration was attended by Syrai's family, friends and community leaders, including Atlanta Police Chief Erika Shields.

"Just look at that face, the face of a fighter! Syrai was so happy to see everyone come out and celebrate her going home. Welcome Home Syrai," the Atlanta Police Department said on its Facebook account. "Wishing you a speedy recovery and a great summer. We love you."

Read more: Dogs Attack Man Near Where Children Were Mauled

Images via APD /Facebook