Volusia County, Florida – Devastating Ormond Beach Tragedy: Infant Mauled to Death on Mother’s Birthday — LIVE UPDATES

Volusia County, Florida – In an unimaginable loss, a 5‑month‑old baby boy named Carter died after being brutally attacked by a 130‑pound Great Dane–Husky mix at a home near Ormond Beach, Volusia County, Florida, on July 30, 2025—coinciding with his mother’s 21st birthday. Parents left Carter under the care of his great-grandmother and great-aunt while they went out to celebrate. The caregivers placed him in a bedroom and briefly let their three dogs roam free. At some point, the bedroom door opened, and the large dog entered and fatally mauled the infant. Carter was found bleeding and unresponsive; he died despite rapid transport to a Daytona Beach hospital. The dog was later euthanized. Sheriff Mike Chitwood described the case as “extremely, extremely heartbreaking,” and authorities are investigating potential negligence.

Key Facts

• BREAKING: 5‑month‑old Carter killed by family dog on Ormond Beach.

• IMPACT: One infant fatality; grieving young parents and extended family.

• OFFICIAL SOURCE: “Tragic all the way around … ends with your child dead.” — Sheriff Chitwood.

• ACTION: Neighbors urged to report unchecked aggressive dogs immediately.

Hyperlocal Impact

1. Precise Location:
   Volusia County, Florida – 1700 block of Carolina Avenue, near Ormond Beach.

2. Community Connection:

   “We were celebrating, and then everything fell apart.” – family friend, Ormond Beach resident.

Exclusive Angle

• WHY THIS MATTERS NOW:
  The incident has reignited community concerns over pet supervision and dangerous dogs. As local authorities debate stricter animal control policies, the tragedy raises questions about housing pets indoors unsupervised around infants.

Carter’s family was enjoying what was meant to be a happy birthday celebration when tragedy struck. According to Sheriff Chitwood, the child’s caregivers placed him in a bedroom due to fussiness and left to make tea in the kitchen. Three dogs were released from their kennels; the largest—a two‑year‑old Great Dane–Husky mix—somehow entered the room. Moments later, Carter was found bleeding and lifeless. The family called 911 at 9:49 p.m. Deputies arrived to find the dog still next to the child. Paramedics rushed Carter to Advent Hospital in Daytona Beach, where he was pronounced dead. A 10‑day hold was placed before the dog’s euthanasia, during which family may appeal. The case is now under investigation for potential negligence by caregivers. Community members and officials alike are pushing for public awareness campaigns about supervising large dogs around children, especially infants, and family pet safety protocols. This case is particularly painful—on what was the baby’s mother’s birthday, her life changed forever. Authorities are urging residents to be vigilant and mindful of animal behavior and safety for vulnerable children.

Update Log

• July 30, 2025 – 9:49 p.m.: 911 call placed after finding Carter injured.

•  August 1, 2025: Animal euthanized; investigation into negligence underway.