Park Dog Attack Investigation
Police investigate after 12-year-old boy dies following dog attack in California park
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A 12-year-old boy drowned in a park pond in California City after two unleashed dogs attacked him and his younger sister just after midnight on June 18, 2026. Fernando Torres Moreno jumped into the water to escape the dogs. He was pulled out unresponsive and later pronounced dead at a local hospital, according to KUZZ News.
Fernando's 8-year-old sister was badly bitten and taken to the hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Police identified the suspected owner of the dogs as Kenneth Dobbins, a 68-year-old transient, according to KGET News. He fled the scene after the attack and remained at large as of June 25, 2026.
Boy Jumped Into Pond to Escape Attacking Dogs
Fernando and his sister were at Central Park in California City when two dogs charged at them shortly after midnight. Fernando jumped into the park's pond in a desperate attempt to get away. Officers arrived after a call about a motionless person in the water. They found Fernando unresponsive and his sister on the ground with severe bite wounds, according to KUZZ News.
Both children were rushed to a local hospital. Fernando was pronounced dead. The Kern County Coroner's Office officially identified him on June 22, according to 23ABC News. His sister was treated for injuries to her limbs and torso. Her name has not been released because of her age.
Suspect Fled the Scene, Search Still Ongoing
California City Police named Kenneth Dobbins as the dogs' suspected owner on June 24. A department spokesperson said, "Kenneth Dobbins allegedly owns the dogs which attacked and killed Fernando Torres," according to KGET News. Dobbins has ties to both California City and Palmdale. He left the scene shortly after the attack.
Police launched a wide search for Dobbins and urged the public to come forward with any information, according to KBAK News. The two dogs involved in the attack were taken into custody. Legal experts say Dobbins could face charges ranging from involuntary manslaughter to failing to control a dangerous animal resulting in death.
Community Holds Vigil as Grief Turns to Outrage
On June 23, residents gathered at Central Park for a candlelight vigil to honor Fernando. Many expressed anger over unleashed dogs in the park. Neighbors told reporters they had seen dogs roaming freely in the area before, according to 23ABC News. Some described Fernando as a brave boy who likely entered the water to protect his little sister.
Residents also raised concerns about animal control enforcement in the area. California City's municipal code requires all animals in public spaces to be on a leash or harness. Violations carry a minimum fine of $250. Critics say the rule is not enforced strongly enough, especially in parks frequented by transients with dogs.
California Leads U.S. in Dog Bite Claims Each Year
California recorded 2,417 dog bite insurance claims in 2024, more than any other state in the country. That was up from 2,104 claims in 2023. The average cost per claim reached $86,229, according to KJT Law Group. The state also recorded 56,941 hospital-treated dog bites in 2024 alone.
Children are the most at-risk group. Kids under 10 are the most likely to need emergency treatment after a dog attack, according to the California Department of Public Health. Fernando's death has renewed calls for stricter enforcement of leash laws and better oversight of animals owned by people experiencing homelessness.
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