A New York couple has been arrested and charged with manslaughter after their three-month-old baby was fatally mauled by two dogs in the attic of their home while they were downstairs smoking marijuana.
Sulamain Hawkins and Anastasia Weaver, both 19, were arrested on Wednesday and charged with manslaughter in connection with the death of their three-month-old baby, Sulamain Hawkins Jr., according to a Rochester Police news release.
On August 3, the couple left their infant sleeping in the attic with two dogs and went downstairs to smoke marijuana, police said. Upon returning to the attic to check on the baby, they discovered that the child had been attacked by at least one of the dogs.
Tragedy in the Attic: New York Couple Arrested After Baby Killed by Dogs
The baby was rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Police, child protective services, and the Monroe County district attorney's office launched an investigation into the incident.
In response to the tragedy, the dogs involved in the attack were euthanized, police said.
Tragedy in the Attic: New York Couple Arrested After Baby Killed by Dogs
Hawkins and Weaver were arraigned on Thursday on manslaughter charges and are scheduled to appear back in court on Tuesday.
The investigation revealed that the couple had allegedly left the baby alone with the dogs for an extended period, resulting in the fatal injuries. Police emphasized the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need to prioritize the safety of children.
Tragedy in the Attic: New York Couple Arrested After Baby Killed by Dogs
The incident has sparked outrage and sorrow in the Rochester community. Many residents have expressed their condolences to the victim's family and called for stricter laws regarding pet ownership and child neglect.
The death of Sulamain Hawkins Jr. is a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating consequences that can occur when children are left unsupervised in dangerous situations. It underscores the crucial role of parental responsibility and the need for public awareness about pet safety.
Experts stress the importance of never leaving children alone with animals, especially unsupervised. They also advise pet owners to keep their dogs properly restrained and to train them to be gentle and obedient around children.
As the legal proceedings against Hawkins and Weaver continue, the community awaits further details about the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. The outcome of the case will send a message about the accountability and responsibility required for the safety and well-being of children and pets.
