A 14-day-old baby boy has tragically died after being attacked by a dog in west-central Alberta early Sunday morning, according to the RCMP.
The attack occurred at a home in the Entwistle area around 7:30 a.m. Emergency responders, including ambulance crews and police from Evansburg, were called to the scene. The infant suffered severe bite injuries and was flown to Stollery Children’s Hospital in Edmonton by STARS air ambulance. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, the baby was later declared dead.
RCMP officials confirmed the dog has been surrendered, and an investigation is ongoing. However, criminal charges are not currently being considered.
Const. Julie-Ann Strilaiff stated that the dog will be examined by a veterinarian on Tuesday. Depending on the findings, there may be an application under the Dangerous Dogs Act for the animal to be euthanized.
“We need the veterinarian’s assessment to understand if there was any underlying cause for the attack,” Strilaiff explained.
While the dog is described as medium-sized, the specific breed has not been disclosed. Strilaiff confirmed that there are no other children in the home, and the dog was the family pet.
“This is an incredibly heartbreaking situation for the family and the entire community,” Strilaiff added.
Entwistle is located about 100 km west of Edmonton.
Fatal dog attacks are rare in Canada, though children are often the victims. In April 2024, an 11-year-old boy from Osoyoos, B.C., died after being mauled by two Cane Corsos in Edmonton. In that case, a woman was later charged with criminal negligence causing death.
Related Topics:
