Mother Sacrifices Herself to Protect Her Child from Three Dogs
Mother Dies Protecting Son from Dog Attack in San Bernardino County
LOS ANGELES — Emily Panuco, a 26-year-old mother, tragically lost her life while trying to shield her young son from an attack by three dogs at her mother’s home in San Bernardino County.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Panuco and her 5-year-old son, residents of Parker, Arizona, were visiting relatives in Southern California on February 27. They had gone to her mother’s house to see a litter of puppies that were just weeks old.
The puppies were placed in a cardboard box near the front door, with three adult dogs, including their mother, present on the property. As the young boy approached the puppies, the three adult dogs unexpectedly attacked him. Panuco intervened to protect her son and was also set upon by the dogs.
Emergency responders reported that Panuco suffered multiple bite wounds and was later pronounced dead. Her son received two severe dog bites and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.
In the aftermath of the attack, the three adult dogs were euthanized.
Specific details about the incident remain sparse. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact Deputy R. Flores of the Colorado River Station / Needles Police Department at (760) 326-9200. Anonymity can be preserved by reporting to the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or visiting wetip.com.
