An 8-year-old Florida boy, Michael Millett, tragically lost his life after being attacked by two dogs during an innocent bike ride near his home.
On Monday, Jan. 13, Michael and a friend were out riding bikes in their neighborhood north of DeLand, Florida. As they approached the entrance to their subdivision, they spotted two dogs. Michael, described by loved ones as caring and adventurous, stopped to pet them. What happened next was horrifying.
According to Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood, Michael was savagely attacked by the dogs, one of which was a 70-pound pit bull. He died at the scene. A frantic 911 call captured the terror of the moment, with a woman pleading for help as the dogs viciously attacked the boy. “They’re tugging on him,” she cried. “Please hurry.”
Michael’s mother witnessed the unimaginable and desperately tried to save her son, diving in to help while screaming for assistance. Thankfully, the dogs did not attack her, but it was too late for Michael.
Authorities later captured the dogs, who are now in quarantine. Sheriff Chitwood revealed that the dogs had a troubling history in the neighborhood, including roaming freely and attacking chickens. Officials are investigating whether the dogs were involved in other incidents, and questions remain about possible charges against their owner.
Michael’s death has devastated his family and community. A GoFundMe has been created to help cover funeral and medical expenses, with heartfelt messages describing Michael as a bright, adventurous boy with a contagious laugh.
His father, Michael Millett Jr., shared his heartbreak on social media, writing, “My baby boy, my meatball, my buddy. I need my buddy back!”
This tragedy has left many grieving the loss of a young life filled with so much promise.
