BIG RIVER, CA — A 26-year-old Arizona mother was killed Friday afternoon after stepping in to protect her 5-year-old son from a three-dog mauling in San Bernardino County. The tragedy occurred during a family visit to see a litter of newborn puppies, according to local law enforcement.
The victim, identified by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department as Emily Panuco of Parker, Arizona, was visiting her mother’s residence in the community of Big River at approximately 3:30 p.m. local time on Feb. 27. Officials state that the encounter turned fatal when Panuco’s son approached a box of several-week-old puppies located near the front of the home.
Details of the Fatal Encounter
According to investigators and local reports from KTLA 5 and Fox 11 Los Angeles, the situation escalated rapidly when the boy neared the puppies. Three adult dogs—one of whom was the mother of the litter—launched an immediate attack on the child.
Witnesses and authorities report that Panuco heroically intervened to shield her son from the animals. While she successfully drew the dogs’ attention away from the child, she became the primary target of the attack.
“The mother suffered multiple bite wounds and was pronounced deceased as a result of her injuries,” the Sheriff’s Department confirmed in an official release.
The 5-year-old boy sustained two severe bite wounds. He was transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment and has since been released to his family.
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Immediate Action and Investigation
In the wake of the incident, the Colorado River Indian Tribes (CRIT) Animal Control took custody of the three adult dogs involved. Authorities confirmed that all three animals have since been euthanized.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department – Colorado River Station is currently leading the investigation. While the breeds of the dogs have not been officially released, investigators are looking into the circumstances that led to the sudden onset of aggression.
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Community Support for the Panuco Family
The tragedy has left a young family shattered. Panuco leaves behind her husband, Richie Panuco, and two children, aged 6 years and 7 months.
A verified GoFundMe campaign established to assist with funeral expenses and childcare has already surpassed $23,000.
“His wife, Emily, tragically passed away after being attacked by dogs while protecting their young son,” the page description reads. “The shock and pain of this event have left the family reeling, and they are in need of support from their community.”
Ongoing Investigation: Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the incident to contact Deputy R. Flores at the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Colorado River Station.
