A 5-year-old boy, described by his family as "vibrant and full-of-life," died Saturday morning after being attacked by two dogs at a caregiver's residence in Ladson, South Carolina. The incident occurred just before 7:30 a.m., according to the Dorchester County Sheriff's Office.
The child, identified as JayCeon Gates, was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead at 9:15 a.m. An unidentified adult also sustained injuries during the attack.
The two dogs involved, identified as a bull mastiff and a pit bull terrier, were taken into custody following the incident. Investigators are working to determine the primary aggressor among the two animals. The ultimate fate of the dogs will be decided by animal control authorities.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established by a relative, Danielle Riley, to help JayCeon's family with funeral expenses and other costs related to their "unimaginable grief and hardship." The fundraiser's description notes that JayCeon, who was autistic, was deeply loved by his mother and older sister. The campaign had raised nearly $7,000 of its $10,000 goal as of Tuesday afternoon.
Family members are planning a balloon release on July 5 to honor JayCeon, requesting attendees bring balloons themed around Power Rangers, Paw Patrol, and cars. A flyer for the event describes him as "A Little Warrior. A Big Legend. Forever in Our Hearts. Forever Our Hero."
The State Law Enforcement Division’s Special Victims Unit, the Department of Child Fatalities, and the sheriff's office are collaborating on the ongoing investigation into the fatal attack.