A 12-year-old boy has tragically died after reportedly trying to escape a group of dogs in California City, California.
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Fernando Torres Moreno is believed to have drowned after fleeing three dogs on June 18.
His eight-year-old sister, whose identity has not been released, survived the incident but suffered injuries after being attacked by the dogs.
Boy Dies While Fleeing Alleged Dog Attack
The California City Police Department responded to reports of a drowning at around 6 p.m. local time.
When officers arrived, they found Moreno's body at the bottom of a nearby lake.
His sister was discovered on the shore suffering serious but non-life-threatening injuries after being mauled by the dogs.
Paramedics from the Kern County Fire Department provided emergency treatment before both children were transported to separate hospitals.
Moreno was initially taken to Adventist Health Tehachapi Valley Hospital before being transferred to Children's Hospital in Bakersfield.
Despite extensive efforts by medical staff to save his life, he was pronounced dead at 3 a.m.
His sister was taken to Antelope Valley Medical Center and was later released.
Police Searching for Dog Owner
Authorities identified 68-year-old Kenneth Dobbins as the owner of the dogs involved in the incident.
Police initially photographed Dobbins, his clothing, and the dogs but did not take him into custody.
Investigators later obtained a search warrant alleging involuntary manslaughter and negligent ownership of a mischievous animal causing serious bodily injury and/or death.
However, authorities say Dobbins fled before officers arrived at his home on June 23.
Police said Dobbins is a previously convicted felon and remains at large, along with two of the three dogs involved. A third dog has since been located and taken into custody.
Meanwhile, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to help Moreno's family cover funeral expenses while "supporting his family as they navigate this difficult time."
The fundraiser has already exceeded its $15,000 goal, including a top individual donation of $5,000.
According to the campaign, Moreno is survived by his mother, father, two brothers, and two sisters.
