HURRICANE, Utah — Police in Washington County are investigating an attack in which a dog is believed to have bitten a young child in the face.
Hurricane City Police were called Saturday around 11 a.m. to a home where 5-year-old Leo was bitten by the dog. Neighbors say Leo and other children were playing outside of a relative’s house when a neighbor's dog, a cross between a rottweiler and a German shepherd, bit him on the face.
He was taken to St. George Regional Hospital for treatment. His family said the muscle from his left eye on down was ripped, and he was bleeding profusely.
Leo's dad, Brayden Fuller, said he was impressed by his toughness.
"He probably cried a little less than I did," Fuller said. "I showed up to the hospital when he woke up and he's like, 'Dad, you want to go see the playroom?' ... I'm like, 'What do you mean? You've already been up and running and ate some eggs and pancakes?' It's crazy."
The dog was taken into the custody of Hurricane Animal Control, where it is being held under a 10-day quarantine and observation period by a licensed veterinarian as they determine the next steps.
Police said Wednesday that the investigation is open, and criminal charges may be filed.
Leo faces more surgeries, 6-8 months of recovery, and potentially a scar for life.
A family friend started a GoFundMe campaign to help with medical treatment expenses for Leo's family. They described him as a "bright and loving 5-year-old boy."
"What should have been an ordinary day turned into every parent’s worst nightmare when a neighbor’s dog suddenly attacked him, leaving Leo with serious facial injuries that will require extensive reconstructive surgery and a long road to recovery," the page read.
Meanwhile, after two days in the hospital, tough little Leo went to a trunk-or-treat event. He was dressed like a zombie, embracing the scars that looked like part of the costume.
"Leo is the kind of kid who lights up every room he walks into — full of energy, laughter, and kindness. Seeing him face something so painful at such a young age is truly heartbreaking."
Dylan Wall and other neighbors say the dog that bit Leo has also been part of other attacks, but they say the city took no action against the dog or its owners. They said they were told the animal shelter was full.
FOX 13 News reached out to Hurricane Police and Animal Control to confirm this, but we have not yet heard back.
