Rochester, MN (KROC AM News) - A young Rochester boy underwent surgery Sunday night at St Mary’s after being severely bitten in the face by a pit bull.

 

 Police Captain John Sherwin  says the 2-year-old was at the Elton Hills School playground around 8 p.m. when the attack occurred. Sherwin says the boy was with his mother and the dog’s owner, who are roommates.  

Sherwin says when the boy began throwing gravel into the air the dog became excited and suddenly attacked the toddler, grabbing him by the head. The boy’s mother and the dog’s owner tried to pull the animal away but were unsuccessful. Some nearby neighbors came to offer assistance and the dog was finally brought under control after about 5 minutes.

The dog, described by its owner as an 8-year-old male pit bull,  has been placed in quarantine. Sherwin says the dog apparently had no history of violence and was familiar with the boy. The toddler was believed to be in critical condition as of last night. Sherwin says his facial injuries were extensive.

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