An infant in Des Moines, Iowa, has died after being attacked by a dog inside a home, according to the Des Moines Police Department.
Officers and firefighters responded to an apartment in the 3600 block of Kennedy Drive around 6:30 a.m. on April 3 after receiving a call about a baby in cardiac arrest. The caller reported that a dog in the home had injured the child and that the infant was not showing signs of life.
When first responders arrived, they determined the infant was already deceased and beyond help.
Two dogs were inside the apartment at the time, described as a shepherd mix and a terrier/bulldog mix. Both animals were taken into custody, but authorities have not said which dog — or if both — were responsible for the fatal attack. The infant’s exact age has not been released.
Second Dog Attack Injures Toddler
In a separate incident the same morning, a 2-year-old child was attacked by a dog inside a hotel room in the 4900 block of NE 14th Street.
Police and emergency crews responded shortly after 8 a.m. following reports that the child had been bitten in the face. The toddler was taken to a hospital with serious facial injuries but is expected to survive.
The dog involved in that incident was also impounded. Its breed has not been disclosed.
Investigation and Safety Reminder
Authorities said the second attack may have happened after the child startled a sleeping dog, triggering the bite.
Both cases remain under investigation, and no charges have been filed.
Police also used the incidents to remind families about pet safety, especially around young children. Officials noted that children are more vulnerable because they may not understand an animal’s warning signs and can unintentionally frighten pets during normal play.
