5-Month-Old Mauled to Death by Family Pet While Parents Were Out Celebrating

Florida – A family’s celebration turned into an unimaginable tragedy after a 5-month-old baby was mauled to death by a family pet while under the care of relatives.

The baby’s mother, Kyleigh, told local news outlets that she and her partner had gone out to celebrate her birthday on Wednesday, leaving their infant son, Karter, in the care of family members at their Florida home.

According to Sheriff Citwood, the caregivers placed the baby in a bedroom and closed the door. While preparing tea and toast in the kitchen, they let the family’s three pets out of their cages to roam freely. At some point, the door to the bedroom was opened. One of the animals—described as large—was later found sitting beside the infant, who was bleeding and unresponsive.

A 911 call was made at 9:49 p.m., and emergency responders arrived shortly after. Despite their efforts, Karter was pronounced dead at the hospital, as reported by NEWS4SA.

The animal was seized by County Animal Services and quarantined for 10 days. Following protocol and without an appeal from the family, the animal was euthanized. Sheriff Citwood called the incident “tragic all the way around” and emphasized the immense emotional toll on those involved.

Authorities confirmed the incident appears to have been an accident. No charges are expected to be filed.

Experts note that while attacks on infants by pets are rare, they underscore the importance of constant supervision, especially with large animals in the home. Proper training and monitoring of pets around children remain crucial.

In a heartfelt Facebook post, Kyleigh wrote:

“What we thought would be an enjoyable night turned into the worst night of our lives.”

Mourning the loss of her son, she added, “Karter was my whole world… He made me a better person every day, and he was so loved and always will be through and through. I am so grateful I was able to be his mommy. As a mother it makes my heart saddened even more that he was so young and we will never be able to experience life to the fullest as a family… May you rest in peace, you sweet, sweet boy.”

As the investigation continues, Sheriff Citwood urged the community to respond with compassion, asking for condolences instead of criticism during this time of profound grief.