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Last updated 8:51 am CT February 09, 2010.
Deadly Dog Attack Called a "Tragic Accident"
The death of 3 year-old Gabrial Mandrell has been ruled an accident.
Around 8:00 Saturday night, dispatchers in Williamson County received a distressed call regarding the toddler.
Family members had found Gabrial outside his home on Willow Pond Road in Johnston City, and the child was in serious condition.
(From the 911 tape)
Caller: "His eyes are set and his lips are white. I don't know how long he's been out here."
Dispatch: "Continue to give him CPR until I can get somebody out there."
As an ambulance was on its way to the scene, family members tried to figure out what had happened.
(From 911 tape)
Caller: "We think the dog got him.
Dispatch: "We think what?"
Caller: "A dog attacked him."
Dispatch: "A dog attacked him?"
Caller: "He's got puncture bites in his throat, around his groin... everywhere."
Less than an hour later, Gabrial was pronounced dead.
Investigators say Gabrial had been sleeping at his home, then woke up, pushed out the screen in his bedroom window, and crawled outside.
It was there he was apparently attacked by the family's three dogs.
The animals-- a collie mix and two pitbull mixes-- were taken from the home. They were brought to the Williamson County Animal Control facility. It's not clear what will happen to the dogs.
Deputies say there were no other children inside the home at the time of the attack. They also say there had been no prior complaints about the animals.
An autopsy conducted Sunday determined that Gabrial died as a result of blood loss from multiple dog bites.
Visitation for Gabrial Mandrell will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 Wednesday night at the Murman-Wilson funeral home in Johnston City. A memorial service follows at 8:00 also at the funeral home.
By: Jackie McPherson
jmcpherson@wsiltv.com
Now: 1265729665
