Man Arrested Nearly a Month After Teen Girl, 17, Was Mauled by More Than 10 ‘Large-Breed’ Dogs During a Jog

A man was detained almost a month after a 17-year-old girl was brutally attacked by a group of more than 10 dogs while out jogging in Newberry Springs, as reported by PEOPLE. The incident occurred on July 17, with the arrest of Craig Arthur Simmons, 61, taking place on August 13 by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department (SBCSD) following surveillance on his residence. The victim, identified locally as Tracy, was assaulted by the pack of canines, leading to severe injuries on her arms and legs, including lacerations and removed flesh. Accounts from the girl’s parents detailed the horrifying attack, which prompted a swift response from law enforcement in his neighbourhood.

Simmons faces charges under Code 399(B) for being the Owner of Animal Causing Serious Bodily Injury or Death, spokesman for the SBCSD mentioned. The SBCSD has not yet provided further details around the case, prompting speculation around the circumstances leading to the dog mauling. Concerns over the welfare of Tracy, who has since been released from the Loma Linda University Medical Center, have been raised with reports of ongoing medical treatments and therapy sessions necessary following the traumatic incident. A fundraising campaign established for the teenage victim has described the significant impact on her life, including the struggle with nightmares post-attack.

Witnesses described the scene as horrific, with the girl’s mother expressing shock at the severity of the injuries inflicted by the unrestrained dogs. The animals, described as ‘large-breed’, were not confined at the time of the attack, prompting swift action from the San Bernardino Animal Control who later seized 16 dogs to aid in the ensuing investigation. Following the assault, Tracy’s routine journey to a local workout facility turned into a nightmare, reflecting the unforeseen dangers that can occur even during routine activities.

Investigations have revealed the gravity of the situation, highlighting the urgent need for responsible pet ownership to prevent similar incidents in the future. The attack on Tracy serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability individuals face when navigating public spaces, emphasising the importance of community safety measures. The community response, including the launching of the criminal investigation and support for Tracy’s recovery, has demonstrated unity and care amidst this disturbing event.

The legal proceedings against Simmons will shed further light on the circumstances surrounding the dog mauling, providing closure for Tracy and her family. The incident has sparked conversations around pet safety regulations and the need for stringent enforcement to prevent such tragic incidents in the future. As Tracy continues her journey to recovery, the support and solidarity from the community will play a crucial role in her healing process, underscoring the resilience and compassion of individuals coming together in the face of adversity.