Boy, 5, Who Survived Oklahoma Tornado Mauled by Bull Mastiff
June 11, 2013— -- A boy who survived the killer tornado that ripped through Moore, Okla., has been mauled to death by a dog while staying at the home of a family friend
The boy, whose name was not released by police, was staying with Lynn Geiling, 50, of Jessieville on Sunday while his parents were in Moore surveying tornado damage.
The family lost their home and all of their belongings when twisters ravaged their town, killing 24 people, last May.
The boy was sitting on the floor with Geiling and putting on his shoes when he started crying. Hearing the child's cries, the 150-pound dog ran into the room and lunged.
"The child was upset and the dog took that as a threat towards the female and attacked," said Deputy Sheriff Scott Hinojosa of Garland County.
According to a police report obtained by ABC News, "the child suffered major lacerations to the head and neck."
"He was taken to Mercy Hospital where he was pronounced deceased," the report stated.
Geiling tried to separate the child and dog and in doing so suffered two bites, according to Mary Bournival, 57, of Hot Springs, Okla. Bournival is one of the 13 justices of the peace for Garland County and heads the committee for animal control.
"To my understanding the dog was half pit bull, half bull mastiff," Bournival continued. "The Geilings were taking care of the dog for their son, who is serving overseas."
"The owners had no clue about the dog's strength," said Bournival. "This is a situation where vulnerable people were unprepared and unable to ward off such a dangerous breed."
Charges have not been filed against Geiling.
"Our investigators are still working. The case is still under investigation and the decision has not yet been made," said Hinojosa.
Following the attack the dog, ran off. It was found and shot by a neighbor on Monday. It was collected by animal control and it will undergo testing.
For Bournival, it's a tragedy she has been afraid might happen.
"Our county does not have any regulations for dangerous dog breeds. All they need are rabies vaccinations. They don't need licenses, they don't need registration, they do not even need to be on a leash," she said.
Neither the Geilings nor the family of the victim were available to comment.
