A distraught mother was forced to witness the horrific death of her one year old daughter, who was brutally mauled by their family pit bull. The attack occurred on July 2 in Dover, Ohio, as Nicole, the mother, momentarily turned her back to pick up laundry.
In that fleeting moment, the dog’s demeanor changed, and it viciously attacked Blakely, inflicting multiple bites to her throat and face.
Despite her own injuries, Nicole valiantly attempted to rescue her daughter, fighting to pry the dog’s grip off the baby. Tragically, the pit bull’s tenacity proved too great, and little Blakely succumbed to her wounds.
In a desperate bid for help, Nicole called 911, but her initial attempt was met with silence. On her second call, she managed to alert authorities, tearfully reporting that the dog had killed her baby.
Tuscarawas County Sheriff Orvis Campbell commended the mother’s bravery, saying, “The mother clearly put up a fight…I’m not sure any of us could imagine doing that. I have children and I can’t imagine a worse nightmare.”, reports the Mirror.
The sheriff revealed that Blakely’s father, Derrick, was not at home during the dog attack and added that the pet had been put down. The pit bull had reportedly never attempted to attack a person before, although it had shown signs of aggression towards other dogs.
Prosecutors are currently reviewing the situation, but no charges are expected to be filed, according to Fox8. An obituary for Blakely read: “Born on May 23, 2024, Blakely brought immeasurable joy, light and love into our lives from the moment she arrived.
“With her bright eyes, infectious giggle, deep stare, and fearless, courageous spirit, she touched the hearts of everyone who met her. Her joyful essence shone brightest when she was playing with her brother. Their bond was pure and filled with laughter, offering moments of joy that will forever reverberate in the hearts of our family.”
A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to support Derrick and Nicole following the tragic loss of Blakely. As of Wednesday evening, the page had raised $16,010 out of a $20,000 target.
All donations will go towards the couple and any expenses they may incur, including time off work, counselling and memorial services. “No family should have to face something like this alone-and while we cannot take away their pain, we can help lift the burdens that come with it,” the GoFundMe stated.