A four-year-old boy has been mauled to death by an American Bully just days after starting preschool.
Garcia Welch suffered fatal injuries when the dog attacked him.
The caller told police that a dog was attacking a young child, as reported by Need To Know.
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Police received the emergency call reporting the incident in the 1500 block of Jefferson Highway, in Louisa, Virginia, US. at approximately 4.42pm on Sunday (18 Oct).
Louisa County Sheriff’s Office said deputies arrived to find Garcia seriously injured while the animal continued to bite him.
Officers were forced to kill the dog to bring the ongoing attack to an end.
Emergency medical personnel took Garcia to a designated landing zone so that he could be airlifted to hospital.
However, the little boy was subsequently pronounced dead.
Deputies identified the dog as an American Bully, but officials have not disclosed who owned the animal or explained how the attack began.
The sheriff’s office is continuing to investigate and said further information would be released when “available and appropriate”.
Garcia had recently begun attending preschool at Thomas Jefferson Elementary School in Louisa.
A fundraising appeal said the youngster was a “bright, sweet little boy” who had a “beautiful smile”.
He leaves behind his devastated mother, older brother and wider family.
Whitney Elizabeth Smith, who had hoped to teach Garcia in kindergarten, described him as a “smart, sweet and loving boy”.
She said: “We had big plans to spend next year together in kindergarten, and I am heartbroken that I won’t get to see those plans come to life.
“Nothing can prepare you for the loss of a child.
“Please keep his family, classmates and teachers in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this unimaginable heartbreak.”
Family friend Ciara Folkins described Garcia as a “happy, loving, bright light”.
Garcia’s mum, Cathleen, thanked those who had contacted them following the tragedy.
Cathleen Russ wrote: “We truly appreciate your concern, kindness and support.
“Our family is working through this extremely difficult time, and I will reach out when the time is right.
“Thank you for understanding and keeping us in your thoughts. It means more than you know.”
Anyone with information has been urged to contact its Criminal Investigations Division on 540-967-1234 or anonymously through Louisa Crime Solvers on 800-346-1466.
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