4-Year-Old Fatally Mauled By Dog In Hazel Park

HAZEL PARK, MI — A 4-year-old Hazel Park boy named Benjamin was killed after being mauled by a pit bull his family was looking after, according to reports.

The boy's sister reportedly called 911 to alert police that a dog had jumped on her brother around 6:45 p.m. Tuesday at the East Woodruff home while the mother reportedly tried to defend her son by stabbing the dog with a knife.

Responding police reportedly shocked the dog with a Taser. The dog was caught and later euthanized, the Detroit Free Press reported.

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A GoFundMe has been started for the family, who called the loss of the boy their "worst nightmare."

"No words can ever explain the depth of our love for him," the fundraiser page reads. "This has taken an unimaginable toll on our family, friends, and all those who knew our sweet boy. A kind gesture to help a friend in a time of need, for a dog that was said to have never shown aggressive behaviors has turned into a horrifying loss for our family. We have learned that we are far from alone in our struggle, as diligent and loving parents from all walks of life have suffered this catastrophic loss under similar horrifying circumstances. Prayers, thoughts, positive wishes, and any donations to the family are welcome at this time."

The boy reportedly sustained injuries on his body and neck. The mother also was hospitalized for dog bites in the attack, the Free Press reported.

The attack comes just two months after 9-year-old Emma Hernandez was mauled to death by three pit bulls in Detroit.

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