A simple visit to see newborn puppies ended in tragedy for a young Arizona family.
According to Fox News, Emily Panuco, a 26-year-old mother of two from Parker, Arizona, was fatally mauled while trying to protect her 5-year-old son outside her mother’s home in Big River, California, authorities said.
According to a press release from the Colorado River Sheriff’s Department, Panuco traveled to the Southern California community on Feb. 27 with her son to see a litter of week-old puppies that belonged to her mother.
The puppies were kept in a cardboard box near the front door of the home. Three adult dogs, including the puppies’ mother, were also on the property.
As Panuco’s son approached the box to pet the puppies, authorities said the three adult dogs suddenly lunged at the child.
Panuco immediately intervened, attempting to shield her son from the attack.
She suffered numerous bite wounds during the mauling. Despite lifesaving efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Her young son sustained two severe bite wounds and was transported to a local hospital. He was later released.
Following the attack, the three adult dogs were taken into custody by local animal control officials and later euthanized, according to authorities.
In the days after the incident, loved ones remembered Panuco as a dedicated mother and community member.
“Emily was a devoted mother who worked at the CRITT library, where she touched the lives of many children and families,” a GoFundMe page created to help with funeral expenses and living costs stated. “Her love for her own family was evident in everything she did, and her absence leaves a tremendous void.”
The fundraiser noted that Panuco is survived by her husband and two young children.
Authorities have not indicated that any criminal charges are expected in connection with the attack.
